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If you’re a sole trader without any employees, you may be exempt. Always check with your broker if you’re unsure. It applies as soon as you take on your first member of staff.",{"name":190,"type":23,"value":191},"Icon Left",[],{"name":193,"type":7,"value":194},"Title Left","Small to medium businesses",{"images":196,"linkedItemCodenames":197,"linkedItems":198,"links":199,"name":148,"type":175,"value":200},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Whether you run a small high street shop, salon or anything in between - you'll need the right coverage. 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Carousel - Legal costs",[],{"codename":115,"collection":75,"id":376,"language":75,"lastModified":377,"name":378,"sitemapLocations":379,"type":380,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"962cd0a6-359d-47be-b466-348fdfef58b4","2026-05-11T08:27:20.7867221Z","Content Block - Carousel - Why do you need employers' liability insurance?",[],"content_block___carousel",{"elements":382,"system":404},{"quote_image":383,"quote_text":394,"attribution":401},{"name":384,"type":23,"value":385},"Quote Image",[386],{"name":387,"description":388,"type":28,"size":389,"url":390,"width":391,"height":392,"renditions":393},"quote-image-jamesb.png","James Barwell",30776,"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002Feb23b2d5-571c-4b0f-bb52-3fbad8823814\u002Fquote-image-jamesb.png",230,190,{},{"images":395,"linkedItemCodenames":396,"linkedItems":397,"links":398,"name":399,"type":175,"value":400},[],[],[],[],"Quote Text","\u003Cp>Employer’s liability insurance is a legal requirement for many businesses. It can help protect your wallet, so you may not have to pay out if an employee claims against you\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":402,"type":7,"value":403},"Attribution","James Barwell – Insurance Director",{"codename":116,"collection":75,"id":405,"language":75,"lastModified":406,"name":407,"sitemapLocations":408,"type":409,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"d3bc73c8-8bff-49a9-bf06-5d6b5af0d83c","2025-01-16T12:34:54.7813247Z","Content Block - Quote - James Barwell",[],"content_block___quote",{"elements":411,"system":433},{"title":412,"text":414,"theme":420},{"name":132,"type":7,"value":413},"What’s the legal minimum for cover?",{"images":415,"linkedItemCodenames":416,"linkedItems":417,"links":418,"name":174,"type":175,"value":419},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>By law, you must hold an insurance policy that provides least \u003Cstrong>£5 million\u003C\u002Fstrong> of employers' liability cover per claim. But many insurers — including those on the Bionic panel — offer \u003Cstrong>£10 million as standard\u003C\u002Fstrong>. \u003Cstrong>EL insurance is only sold as part of a wider policy that \u003C\u002Fstrong>combines employers' liability with other covers suitable for your specific business — such as public liability, professional indemnity, or business contents insurance — under a single policy, instead of buying them separate.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":71,"type":15,"value":421,"linkedItems":423},[422],"content_block___theme___grey",[424],{"elements":425,"system":428},{"colour":426},{"name":220,"type":7,"value":427},"Grey",{"codename":422,"collection":75,"id":429,"language":75,"lastModified":430,"name":431,"sitemapLocations":432,"type":227,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"7f21286b-86bb-4895-89e6-2a089b86b647","2024-10-21T16:46:34.480424Z","Content Block - Theme - Grey",[],{"codename":117,"collection":75,"id":434,"language":75,"lastModified":435,"name":436,"sitemapLocations":437,"type":438,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"87e70fdb-e98a-4c57-87be-1aedb0da4156","2026-05-11T08:30:38.7028594Z","Content Block - One Column - What’s the legal minimum for cover?",[],"content_block___one_column",{"elements":440,"system":452},{"title":441,"text":443,"theme":449},{"name":132,"type":7,"value":442},"How much is employers’ liability insurance?",{"images":444,"linkedItemCodenames":445,"linkedItems":446,"links":447,"name":174,"type":175,"value":448},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>The cost of employers’ liability insurance cover varies depending on several factors unique to your business, including:  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Type of business -\u003C\u002Fstrong> High-risk industries like construction or \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fmanufacturing\u002F\">manufacturing\u003C\u002Fa> typically have higher premiums than lower-risk businesses such as retail or office-based work. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Number of employees -\u003C\u002Fstrong> The more employees you have, the higher the risk and the cost of coverage. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Claims history -\u003C\u002Fstrong> A history of claims can indicate higher risk, leading to increased premiums. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Workplace risks -\u003C\u002Fstrong> Businesses with hazardous working environments or specialized equipment may face higher costs. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Policy coverage level -\u003C\u002Fstrong> The industry standard is £10 million across the insurers we deal with. Any additional cover will influence the price. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>To find out exactly what it’ll cost to insure your business, speak to a member of our insurance team today! \u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":71,"type":15,"value":450,"linkedItems":451},[215],[217],{"codename":118,"collection":75,"id":453,"language":75,"lastModified":454,"name":455,"sitemapLocations":456,"type":438,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"325cce89-48b4-4c9f-acd4-9ba76a887c5f","2025-01-17T10:15:03.5715525Z","Content Block - One Column - How much is employers’ liability insurance?",[],{"elements":458,"system":464},{"title":459,"video__id":461},{"name":132,"type":7,"value":460},"What if you have volunteers? Our Business Comparison Expert, Les Roberts, explains more.",{"name":462,"type":7,"value":463},"Video Id","NOUkNk9vx4w",{"codename":119,"collection":75,"id":465,"language":75,"lastModified":466,"name":467,"sitemapLocations":468,"type":469,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"3df3a76b-77a5-4638-aa24-18d8374a23d0","2025-01-16T12:44:47.0250725Z","Content Block - Video - Do I need employers’ liability if I have volunteers?",[],"content__block__video",{"elements":471,"system":482},{"title":472,"text":473,"cta_button_text":474,"cta_link_url":476,"tagline":477,"theme":479},{"name":132,"type":7,"value":56},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":56},{"name":49,"type":7,"value":475},"Compare employers' liability quotes",{"name":52,"type":7,"value":53},{"name":34,"type":7,"value":478},"Or speak to one of our team on 0800 032 7925",{"name":71,"type":15,"value":480,"linkedItems":481},[215],[217],{"codename":120,"collection":75,"id":483,"language":75,"lastModified":484,"name":485,"sitemapLocations":486,"type":487,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"0d98eff4-3a20-412f-96dc-4678291dd173","2026-05-11T09:17:49.962879Z","Content Block - CTA - Compare employers' liabilty",[],"content_block__cta",{"elements":489,"system":523},{"title":490,"tagline":492,"title_left":494,"text_left":496,"title_middle":502,"text_middle":505,"title_right":511,"text_right":513,"cta_button_text":519,"cta_link_url":521},{"name":132,"type":7,"value":491},"How Bionic business insurance comparison works",{"name":34,"type":7,"value":493},"Compare insurance quotes in three simple steps",{"name":193,"type":7,"value":495},"Start your quote online ",{"images":497,"linkedItemCodenames":498,"linkedItems":499,"links":500,"name":148,"type":175,"value":501},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Speed up the process by submitting basic business details online – whenever you have time. \u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":503,"type":7,"value":504},"Title Middle","Speak to our UK-based team ",{"images":506,"linkedItemCodenames":507,"linkedItems":508,"links":509,"name":151,"type":175,"value":510},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Schedule a call with one of our insurance brokers to discuss the details to ensure they’re correct. \u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":205,"type":7,"value":512},"Compare tailored quotes ",{"images":514,"linkedItemCodenames":515,"linkedItems":516,"links":517,"name":154,"type":175,"value":518},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Get your quotes from our panel of trusted insurers and through any questions with our team. \u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":49,"type":7,"value":520},"Compare business insurance",{"name":231,"type":7,"value":522},"https:\u002F\u002Fbusiness-insurance.bionic.co.uk\u002F?ppcref=seogeneric",{"codename":121,"collection":75,"id":524,"language":75,"lastModified":525,"name":526,"sitemapLocations":527,"type":528,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"1c547f83-b753-4506-b9f2-1fc1460004af","2026-01-23T15:55:02.6436832Z","Content Block - How Does It Work - SEOGeneric - How Bionic business Insurance comparison works",[],"content_block___how_does_it_work",{"elements":530,"system":584},{"title_left":531,"text_left":533,"bullet_points":539},{"name":193,"type":7,"value":532},"What do I need to get started?",{"images":534,"linkedItemCodenames":535,"linkedItems":536,"links":537,"name":148,"type":175,"value":538},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>You only need a few details to get started with getting a free business insurance quote online, so it’s best to have the following information ready to go: \u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":540,"type":15,"value":541,"linkedItems":546},"Bullet Points",[542,543,544,545],"content_block___bullet_point_item___ins_business","content_block___bullet_point_item___ins_policy_dat","content_block___bullet_point_item___ins_name_and_c","content_block___bullet_point_item___ins_additional",[547,557,566,575],{"elements":548,"system":551},{"text":549},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":550},"Your business name and trade ",{"codename":542,"collection":75,"id":552,"language":75,"lastModified":553,"name":554,"sitemapLocations":555,"type":556,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"f5c87133-0e80-44f6-a888-59adda324773","2024-11-18T15:45:17.9673586Z","Content Block - Bullet Point Item - ins business",[],"content_block___bullet_point_item",{"elements":558,"system":561},{"text":559},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":560},"Your policy start date",{"codename":543,"collection":75,"id":562,"language":75,"lastModified":563,"name":564,"sitemapLocations":565,"type":556,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"45b464f7-13cf-49ff-9d89-7624b4e6561e","2024-11-18T16:45:27.4347361Z","Content Block - Bullet Point Item - Ins Policy Date",[],{"elements":567,"system":570},{"text":568},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":569},"Your name and contact details to receive your quote options",{"codename":544,"collection":75,"id":571,"language":75,"lastModified":572,"name":573,"sitemapLocations":574,"type":556,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"cc8e290d-aa14-49e6-9c47-e4efcd884c5d","2024-11-18T16:44:52.23641Z","Content Block - Bullet Point Item - Ins name and contact details",[],{"elements":576,"system":579},{"text":577},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":578},"You may be asked additional questions about business activities",{"codename":545,"collection":75,"id":580,"language":75,"lastModified":581,"name":582,"sitemapLocations":583,"type":556,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"e68e6dec-964b-4032-8dd3-db7796d9098b","2024-11-18T16:46:11.6253384Z","Content Block - Bullet Point Item - Ins additional Q's",[],{"codename":122,"collection":75,"id":585,"language":75,"lastModified":586,"name":587,"sitemapLocations":588,"type":589,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"e263bf42-58ca-4c8b-8463-d2c02093c67a","2026-03-16T14:49:09.7669112Z","Content Block - Bullet Points - Ins Getting Started",[],"content_block___bullet_points",{"elements":591,"system":598},{"title":592,"cta_button_text":594,"cta_link_url":596},{"name":132,"type":7,"value":593},"Businesses are happy with our customer service",{"name":49,"type":7,"value":595},"Read our customer stories",{"name":52,"type":7,"value":597},"https:\u002F\u002Fuk.trustpilot.com\u002Freview\u002Fbionic.co.uk",{"codename":123,"collection":75,"id":599,"language":75,"lastModified":600,"name":601,"sitemapLocations":602,"type":603,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"0b8fe963-e21c-40d4-a3af-533d6b0a87b3","2026-05-29T11:25:35.7041053Z","Content Block - Trust Pilot: Slider Insurance",[],"content_block___trust_pilot",{"elements":605,"system":856},{"title":606,"tagline":608,"faq_items":609},{"name":132,"type":7,"value":607},"Employers' Liability Insurance FAQs",{"name":34,"type":7,"value":56},{"name":610,"type":15,"value":611,"linkedItems":627},"FAQ Items",[612,613,614,615,616,617,618,619,620,621,622,623,624,625,626],"content_block___faq_item__are_any_businesses_exemp","content_block___faq_item__do_you_need_employers__l","content_block___faq_item__do_you_need_employers__l_8983a65","content_block___faq_item___what_if_i_m_a_sole_trad","content_block___faq_item___what_if_i_employ_contra","content_block___faq_item__is_employers__liability_","content_block___faq_item__insurance_working_from_h_65b3ca9","content_block___faq_item__how_many_employees_can_b","content_block___faq_item__what_happens_if_i_don_t_","content_block___faq_item___do_i_need_an_el_certifi","content_block_faq_item___do_i_need_employers__liab","content_block___faq_item__does_employers__liabilit","content_block_faq_item___can_i_get_employers__liab","content_block_faq_item___does_employers__liability","content_block___faq_item___what_s_the_difference_b_dc46f98",[628,646,661,676,691,706,721,736,751,766,781,796,811,826,841],{"elements":629,"system":640},{"question":630,"answer":633},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":632},"Question","Are any businesses exempt from taking out employers’ liability insurance? ",{"images":634,"linkedItemCodenames":635,"linkedItems":636,"links":637,"name":638,"type":175,"value":639},[],[],[],[],"Answer","\u003Cp>Although employers' liability insurance is compulsory there are a few exceptions, including:  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Businesses that only employ immediate family members (unless your family business is incorporated as a limited company, in which case the insurance is compulsory).   \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Sole traders - if you are the only person working for the business and providing you aren't incorporated into a limited company.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>If you employ staff and none of the above exceptions apply to you then it's safe to say you'll need to take out this type of insurance. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>A limited company where the owner is the sole employee and owns more than 50% of the share capital and has no employees. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Employees normally based abroad, \u003Cstrong>unless\u003C\u002Fstrong> they spend more than 14 consecutive days in the UK \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Most public organisations, including government departments and agencies \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>",{"codename":612,"collection":75,"id":641,"language":75,"lastModified":642,"name":643,"sitemapLocations":644,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"7036a241-1caf-4f1a-8820-a7a82b757340","2026-05-11T08:31:44.9904048Z","Content Block - FAQ Item: Are any businesses exempt from taking out employers’ liability insurance?",[],"content_block___faq_item",{"elements":647,"system":656},{"question":648,"answer":650},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":649},"Do you need employers’ liability insurance for freelancers?",{"images":651,"linkedItemCodenames":652,"linkedItems":653,"links":654,"name":638,"type":175,"value":655},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>If you only work with freelancers who provide their own tools and services then they will be responsible for their own insurance, and you won’t need employers’ liability insurance.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But if you employ anyone and they work for you on a regular basis, they could be classified as a worker. Speak to a broker if you are unsure if you need employers’ liability. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If HMRC would classify someone as an employee for tax purposes — based on how they work, not just what their contract says — you may need EL insurance for them. If in doubt, check with HMRC's employment status tool or speak to a broker. \u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":613,"collection":75,"id":657,"language":75,"lastModified":658,"name":659,"sitemapLocations":660,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"18efe6ab-dd78-42be-af1f-2a1e5f10233f","2026-05-11T08:32:30.4273526Z","Content Block - FAQ Item: Do you need employers’ liability insurance for freelancers?",[],{"elements":662,"system":671},{"question":663,"answer":665},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":664},"Do you need employers’ liability insurance for temporary workers?",{"images":666,"linkedItemCodenames":667,"linkedItems":668,"links":669,"name":638,"type":175,"value":670},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Yes, if you have temporary workers or seasonal staff, then employers’ liability insurance is a legal requirement. If you only employ extra staff for Christmas or busy periods, you can amend your policy to cover them for a limited amount of time. Speak to a broker to arrange this.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":614,"collection":75,"id":672,"language":75,"lastModified":673,"name":674,"sitemapLocations":675,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"8983a65a-f50b-4577-8fd7-dd3cf1a67657","2025-01-16T12:49:36.101219Z","Content Block - FAQ Item: Do you need employers’ liability insurance for temporary workers?",[],{"elements":677,"system":686},{"question":678,"answer":680},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":679},"What if I’m a sole trader?",{"images":681,"linkedItemCodenames":682,"linkedItems":683,"links":684,"name":638,"type":175,"value":685},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>As a sole trader in the UK, generally \u003Cstrong>you don’t need\u003C\u002Fstrong> employer's liability (EL) insurance if you work alone, but you \u003Cstrong>must legally have it\u003C\u002Fstrong> if you hire staff, subcontractors, or volunteers. If you employ anyone (even temporary staff), you risk fines of £2,500 per day if you don’t have it.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":615,"collection":75,"id":687,"language":75,"lastModified":688,"name":689,"sitemapLocations":690,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"d652c5af-e445-46be-b877-5f7d2af0529c","2026-05-11T08:33:20.8848379Z","Content Block - FAQ Item - What if I’m a sole trader?",[],{"elements":692,"system":701},{"question":693,"answer":695},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":694},"What if I employ contractors or subcontractors?",{"images":696,"linkedItemCodenames":697,"linkedItems":698,"links":699,"name":638,"type":175,"value":700},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>You may need employers' liability insurance for contractors or subcontractors you hire specifically if these are \u003Cstrong>labour-only subcontractors (LOSC)\u003C\u002Fstrong> — those who work only with materials you supply and especially if you are managing their work. The exception is \u003Cstrong>bona fide subcontractors\u003C\u002Fstrong> – who use their owns tools, set their own hours and work for multiple people. You usually do not need employers' liability to cover them, but you should check they have their own insurance in place.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":616,"collection":75,"id":702,"language":75,"lastModified":703,"name":704,"sitemapLocations":705,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"0ff19d66-6534-4be0-996c-b7440b5d0c8e","2026-05-11T08:34:13.2431838Z","Content Block - FAQ Item - What if I employ contractors or subcontractors?",[],{"elements":707,"system":716},{"question":708,"answer":710},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":709},"Is employers’ liability insurance the same as public liability insurance?",{"images":711,"linkedItemCodenames":712,"linkedItems":713,"links":714,"name":638,"type":175,"value":715},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>No, employers’ liability insurance covers claims made by employees, while \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fpublic-liability-insurance\u002F\">public liability insurance\u003C\u002Fa> covers claims made by third parties, such as customers or members of the public, for injuries or damage caused by your business activities.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":617,"collection":75,"id":717,"language":75,"lastModified":718,"name":719,"sitemapLocations":720,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"2d0a35ea-e97a-4815-a0cb-daf66478dacc","2025-01-16T12:50:20.6149299Z","Content Block - FAQ Item: is employers’ liability insurance the same as public liability insurance?",[],{"elements":722,"system":731},{"question":723,"answer":725},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":724},"Does employers’ liability insurance cover staff that work from home?",{"images":726,"linkedItemCodenames":727,"linkedItems":728,"links":729,"name":638,"type":175,"value":730},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>An employers’ liability policy should cover staff wherever they’re working, including in their own homes. Most insurers will include home-working cover, but you should always check the policy wording to make sure. Always make your broker aware you have staff working from home when discussing your policy needs.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":618,"collection":75,"id":732,"language":75,"lastModified":733,"name":734,"sitemapLocations":735,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"65b3ca9b-237c-46b1-b1be-5bf4bdfadc9b","2025-01-16T12:51:05.2404172Z","Content Block - FAQ Item: insurance working from home?",[],{"elements":737,"system":746},{"question":738,"answer":740},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":739},"How many employees can be covered on a single policy?",{"images":741,"linkedItemCodenames":742,"linkedItems":743,"links":744,"name":638,"type":175,"value":745},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>This can vary between insurers, but it’s important that your policy covers all of your employees in all working environments. This includes at your business premises, on other sites, at home, and any other places they carry out work duties.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":619,"collection":75,"id":747,"language":75,"lastModified":748,"name":749,"sitemapLocations":750,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"bfb7a120-8959-4792-baad-3d309e7db824","2025-01-16T12:51:40.4540276Z","Content Block - FAQ Item: How many employees can be covered on a single policy?",[],{"elements":752,"system":761},{"question":753,"answer":755},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":754},"What happens if I don’t have employers’ liability insurance?",{"images":756,"linkedItemCodenames":757,"linkedItems":758,"links":759,"name":638,"type":175,"value":760},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Operating without employers' liability insurance when required by law could result in \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.gov.uk\u002Femployers-liability-insurance\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">fines of up to £2,500\u003C\u002Fa> for each day you’re not properly insured. You could also be fined £1,000 if you do not display your EL certificate or refuse to make it available to inspectors when they ask.  \u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":620,"collection":75,"id":762,"language":75,"lastModified":763,"name":764,"sitemapLocations":765,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"7b7635de-e795-44ce-8afe-78924830bf8f","2025-01-16T12:52:38.6761166Z","Content Block - FAQ Item: What happens if I don’t have employers’ liability insurance?",[],{"elements":767,"system":776},{"question":768,"answer":770},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":769},"Do I need an EL certificate?",{"images":771,"linkedItemCodenames":772,"linkedItems":773,"links":774,"name":638,"type":175,"value":775},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Once you take out employers' liability insurance, your insurer will issue you with an \u003Cstrong>Employers' Liability (EL) Certificate\u003C\u002Fstrong>. But since 2008, you have been allowed to display your EL certificate \u003Cstrong>electronically\u003C\u002Fstrong>, so you don't need a physical copy pinned to a noticeboard — as long as staff know where to find it. This could be in your workplace, on your website, or on your company intranet – if you don’t provide access to it when asked, you could be fined up to £1,000. You need to keep \u003Cstrong>it\u003C\u002Fstrong> for at least \u003Cstrong>40 years\u003C\u002Fstrong> from the date the insurance starts or is renewed and make it available to HSE inspectors on request or within \u003Cstrong>10 working days\u003C\u002Fstrong> if asked by an employee. \u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":621,"collection":75,"id":777,"language":75,"lastModified":778,"name":779,"sitemapLocations":780,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"2979ff86-79c0-4052-af04-89ee31ea2a75","2026-05-11T08:35:09.6175565Z","Content Block - FAQ Item - Do I need an EL certificate?",[],{"elements":782,"system":791},{"question":783,"answer":785},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":784},"Do I need employers' liability insurance if I'm a director of my own limited company?",{"images":786,"linkedItemCodenames":787,"linkedItems":788,"links":789,"name":638,"type":175,"value":790},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>In most cases, yes. If your limited company has any employees — including other directors — you'll need EL insurance. The only exception is if you are the \u003Cstrong>sole director and sole employee\u003C\u002Fstrong> of your own limited company and you own \u003Cstrong>more than 50% of the share capital\u003C\u002Fstrong>. Even then, many business owners do choose to take out cover for peace of mind, especially if they take on freelancers or helpers on an occasional basis.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":622,"collection":75,"id":792,"language":75,"lastModified":793,"name":794,"sitemapLocations":795,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"f7f21a46-a4d0-4f32-9991-70b48703f9be","2026-05-11T08:35:55.1584762Z","Content Block FAQ Item - Do I need employers' liability insurance if I'm a director of my own limited company?",[],{"elements":797,"system":806},{"question":798,"answer":800},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":799},"Does employers' liability insurance cover past employees?",{"images":801,"linkedItemCodenames":802,"linkedItems":803,"links":804,"name":638,"type":175,"value":805},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Yes, most policies include coverage for claims from past employees, even if they file a claim after they’ve left your employment, as long as the injury or illness occurred while they were working for you.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":623,"collection":75,"id":807,"language":75,"lastModified":808,"name":809,"sitemapLocations":810,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"9e664cfe-ee3c-4540-9343-1077551067af","2025-01-16T12:53:15.6317988Z","Content Block - FAQ Item: Does employers' liability insurance cover past employees?",[],{"elements":812,"system":821},{"question":813,"answer":815},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":814},"Can I get employers' liability insurance if I've had claims in the past?",{"images":816,"linkedItemCodenames":817,"linkedItems":818,"links":819,"name":638,"type":175,"value":820},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Yes — having previous claims doesn't automatically stop you getting cover. However, a claims history is one of the factors insurers use when calculating your premium, so you may find your costs are higher. Being upfront about previous claims when you apply is important: non-disclosure can invalidate a policy. Speak to a broker who can find the right insurer for your specific situation. \u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":624,"collection":75,"id":822,"language":75,"lastModified":823,"name":824,"sitemapLocations":825,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"9b2d1645-584e-4230-bb92-086678aab658","2026-05-11T08:38:10.8062084Z","Content Block FAQ Item - Can I get employers' liability insurance if I've had claims in the past?",[],{"elements":827,"system":836},{"question":828,"answer":830},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":829},"Does employers' liability insurance cover mental health claims?",{"images":831,"linkedItemCodenames":832,"linkedItems":833,"links":834,"name":638,"type":175,"value":835},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Yes, most policies cover work-related mental health conditions — such as stress, anxiety, or depression — if an employee claims their illness was caused by their work. This is a growing area of workplace claims in the UK. Make sure your policy wording includes psychological injury as well as physical injury when reviewing your cover.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":625,"collection":75,"id":837,"language":75,"lastModified":838,"name":839,"sitemapLocations":840,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"176d9822-771e-49a1-b278-2e9cb81c3b3e","2026-05-11T08:38:47.3773397Z","Content Block FAQ Item - Does employers' liability insurance cover mental health claims?",[],{"elements":842,"system":851},{"question":843,"answer":845},{"name":631,"type":7,"value":844},"What's the difference between employers' liability insurance and workers' compensation? ",{"images":846,"linkedItemCodenames":847,"linkedItems":848,"links":849,"name":638,"type":175,"value":850},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Workers' compensation is a US term. In the UK, the equivalent is employers' liability insurance. Under UK law, employers must hold EL insurance -if they employ anyone - so that injured or ill employees can claim compensation without needing to sue their employer personally. The minimum legal cover is £5 million per claim, though most UK policies provide £10 million as standard.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":626,"collection":75,"id":852,"language":75,"lastModified":853,"name":854,"sitemapLocations":855,"type":645,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"dc46f983-1c59-40e2-8e88-c307cbd7c715","2026-05-11T08:39:48.1461459Z","Content Block - FAQ Item - What's the difference between employers' liability insurance and workers' compensation?",[],{"codename":124,"collection":75,"id":857,"language":75,"lastModified":858,"name":859,"sitemapLocations":860,"type":861,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"89ae8c57-3306-47fa-b5a8-fe74acc1ce81","2026-05-11T08:38:58.9109317Z","Content Block - FAQ - Employers' Liability FAQs",[],"content_block___faq",{"elements":863,"system":1469},{"title":864,"cta_button_text":866,"cta_link_url":868,"guides":870},{"name":132,"type":7,"value":865},"Our team shares essential knowledge on business insurance and employees",{"name":49,"type":7,"value":867},"View all business insurance guides",{"name":231,"type":7,"value":869},"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002F",{"name":871,"type":15,"value":872,"linkedItems":877},"Guides",[873,874,875,876],"insurnce_guide___brokers___a_step_by_step_guide_to","insurance_guide___brokers___buying_insurance_for_t","insurance_guide___how_to_handle_a_workplace_accide","untitled_content_item_1e7a4b2",[878,1126,1207,1398],{"elements":879,"system":1121},{"post__title":880,"post__summary":882,"post__content":885,"post__author":1042,"post__reviewer":1047,"publish_date":1052,"updated_date":1057,"url":1059,"seo__meta_title":1062,"seo__meta_description":1065,"seo__add_no_index_tag":1068,"seo__canonical_url":1075,"related_articles":1078,"categories":1082,"subfolder":1087,"tags":1092,"thumbnail_image":1096,"show_on_index_page":1103,"hide_author":1109,"hide_reviewer":1113,"hide_tags":1117},{"name":132,"type":7,"value":881},"A step-by-step guide to working with a business insurance broker",{"name":883,"type":7,"value":884},"Summary","Never spoken to a business insurance broker before? Here's what you need to know: from finding one that’s right for your business, to renewals, claims and more. ",{"images":886,"linkedItemCodenames":893,"linkedItems":908,"links":1039,"name":1040,"type":175,"value":1041},[887],{"description":888,"imageId":889,"url":890,"height":891,"width":892},"graphic with text 'working with an insurance broker' with a female business owner stood next to a broker. They are stood in a warehouse full of boxes.","8aa2bf1f-abfc-4b10-966d-b4895d1fa7d0","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F63a85fa1-294b-41c8-96fb-6e7114afbcc8\u002FWorking%20with%20a%20broker%20%281%29.jpg",1415,2118,[894,895,896,897,898,899,900,901,902,903,904,905,906,907],"n4f97319b_a2f7_01aa_f28e_ba41d475dbe8","n4f88bd1e_d4b8_013e_5a95_67a7e59ff6f4","n29f09511_2504_01a6_51e2_bc50ad81b499","cad2d966_191b_01f0_34e1_80a9af5adf8c","b0fe8a1a_32dd_0144_5b5a_70e8a597c2a2","f1ebeb93_483d_0192_b691_1399529d6a78","n30fc9004_c12c_0169_53d6_9b80e37c59f6","n5ce29ae9_eb3c_019b_096c_8043777f1968","d83d3578_9bdc_0169_86f8_97702d32c3b3","fad3a51a_8b2a_018c_f861_ce792e0004ea","n5c2aba3f_52f7_01ce_d6ee_1af7b06035a7","de398d25_e68a_01c3_3e4d_8ce889084e8f","a85b6af0_1f75_015d_3086_c63af75f75ab","n429f82f1_db5f_0196_f5ec_4b1e512b890a",[909,920,929,940,949,958,967,976,985,994,1003,1012,1021,1030],{"elements":910,"system":914},{"sound_cloud_id":911},{"name":912,"type":7,"value":913},"Sound Cloud ID","2242537154",{"codename":894,"collection":75,"id":915,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":915,"sitemapLocations":917,"type":918,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"4f97319b-a2f7-01aa-f28e-ba41d475dbe8","2026-01-06T11:01:43.2871159Z",[],"sound_cloud",null,{"elements":921,"system":925},{"video":922},{"name":923,"type":7,"value":924},"Youtube Video","w02FKUS8ZII",{"codename":895,"collection":75,"id":926,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":926,"sitemapLocations":927,"type":928,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"4f88bd1e-d4b8-013e-5a95-67a7e59ff6f4",[],"video_tag",{"elements":930,"system":936},{"text":931,"anchor_id":933},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":932},"What is a business insurance broker and why use one? ",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":935},"Anchor ID","what-is-a-business-insurance-broker-and-why-use-one",{"codename":896,"collection":75,"id":937,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":937,"sitemapLocations":938,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"29f09511-2504-01a6-51e2-bc50ad81b499",[],"anchor_tag",{"elements":941,"system":946},{"text":942,"anchor_id":944},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":943},"How do I find and choose the right business insurance broker?",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":945},"how-do-i-find-and-choose-the-right-business-insurance-broker",{"codename":897,"collection":75,"id":947,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":947,"sitemapLocations":948,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"cad2d966-191b-01f0-34e1-80a9af5adf8c",[],{"elements":950,"system":955},{"text":951,"anchor_id":953},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":952},"Questions to ask before choosing a broker",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":954},"questions-to-ask-before-choosing-a-broker",{"codename":898,"collection":75,"id":956,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":956,"sitemapLocations":957,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"b0fe8a1a-32dd-0144-5b5a-70e8a597c2a2",[],{"elements":959,"system":964},{"text":960,"anchor_id":962},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":961},"What information does a broker need from my business?",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":963},"what-information-does-a-broker-need-from-my-business",{"codename":899,"collection":75,"id":965,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":965,"sitemapLocations":966,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"f1ebeb93-483d-0192-b691-1399529d6a78",[],{"elements":968,"system":973},{"text":969,"anchor_id":971},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":970},"What happens if my business has unusual risks",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":972},"what-happens-if-my-business-has-unusual-risks",{"codename":900,"collection":75,"id":974,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":974,"sitemapLocations":975,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"30fc9004-c12c-0169-53d6-9b80e37c59f6",[],{"elements":977,"system":982},{"text":978,"anchor_id":980},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":979},"How does the quote process work with a broker?",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":981},"how-does-the-quote-process-work-with-a-broker",{"codename":901,"collection":75,"id":983,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":983,"sitemapLocations":984,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"5ce29ae9-eb3c-019b-096c-8043777f1968",[],{"elements":986,"system":991},{"text":987,"anchor_id":989},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":988},"What should I check before accepting a policy?",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":990},"what-should-i-check-before-accepting-a-policy",{"codename":902,"collection":75,"id":992,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":992,"sitemapLocations":993,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"d83d3578-9bdc-0169-86f8-97702d32c3b3",[],{"elements":995,"system":1000},{"text":996,"anchor_id":998},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":997},"How much do brokers charge, and how are they paid?",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":999},"how-much-do-brokers-charge-and-how-are-they-paid",{"codename":903,"collection":75,"id":1001,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":1001,"sitemapLocations":1002,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"fad3a51a-8b2a-018c-f861-ce792e0004ea",[],{"elements":1004,"system":1009},{"text":1005,"anchor_id":1007},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":1006},"What happens when it’s time to renew?",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":1008},"what-happens-when-its-time-to-renew",{"codename":904,"collection":75,"id":1010,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":1010,"sitemapLocations":1011,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"5c2aba3f-52f7-01ce-d6ee-1af7b06035a7",[],{"elements":1013,"system":1018},{"text":1014,"anchor_id":1016},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":1015},"Common mistakes when working with a broker",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":1017},"common-mistakes-when-working-with-a-broker",{"codename":905,"collection":75,"id":1019,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":1019,"sitemapLocations":1020,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"de398d25-e68a-01c3-3e4d-8ce889084e8f",[],{"elements":1022,"system":1027},{"text":1023,"anchor_id":1025},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":1024},"Can I arrange other business services with a broker?",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":1026},"can-i-arrange-other-business-services-with-a-broker",{"codename":906,"collection":75,"id":1028,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":1028,"sitemapLocations":1029,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"a85b6af0-1f75-015d-3086-c63af75f75ab",[],{"elements":1031,"system":1036},{"text":1032,"anchor_id":1034},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":1033},"Building a long-term relationship with your broker",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":1035},"Building-a-long-term-relationship-with-your-broker",{"codename":907,"collection":75,"id":1037,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":1037,"sitemapLocations":1038,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"429f82f1-db5f-0196-f5ec-4b1e512b890a",[],[],"Content","\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n4f97319b_a2f7_01aa_f28e_ba41d475dbe8\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Cp>From understanding premiums to sums insured, getting your business properly covered doesn't have to feel like overwhelming jargon. And working with a reputable business insurance broker can make the process easier. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The key is knowing what to do: from researching what a broker can offer to dealing with one so you can feel more prepared. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Here's what you need to know about working with a commercial broker, including how to find one that’s right for your business, how they can help deal with renewals and claims, and more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"8aa2bf1f-abfc-4b10-966d-b4895d1fa7d0\" data-image-id=\"8aa2bf1f-abfc-4b10-966d-b4895d1fa7d0\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F63a85fa1-294b-41c8-96fb-6e7114afbcc8\u002FWorking%20with%20a%20broker%20%281%29.jpg\" data-asset-id=\"8aa2bf1f-abfc-4b10-966d-b4895d1fa7d0\" data-image-id=\"8aa2bf1f-abfc-4b10-966d-b4895d1fa7d0\" alt=\"graphic with text 'working with an insurance broker' with a female business owner stood next to a broker. They are stood in a warehouse full of boxes.\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Five-point summary:\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Col>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Benefits of using a broker\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Many brokers compare quotes, explain cover options, and negotiate with insurers on your behalf. All must be FCA‑regulated.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Choosing a broker\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Check the FCA Register and ask about fees, insurers they work with, and claims support. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Information you need\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Share your details with your broker on activities, turnover, staff, premises, and any unusual risks to help get proper cover.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Quotes \u003C\u002Fstrong> – Brokers can search the market to find suitable quote options. They can help explain what's included and any exclusions to be aware of.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Renewals \u003C\u002Fstrong>–  At renewal, many brokers recheck the market for quotes. Brokers like bionic, can also arrange other essentials for you, such as energy, broadband, and finance.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Cp>Prefer to watch? See the roundup of this guide from Laura.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n4f88bd1e_d4b8_013e_5a95_67a7e59ff6f4\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n29f09511_2504_01a6_51e2_bc50ad81b499\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What is a business insurance broker, and why use one?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>A business insurance broker deals in the commercial insurance market, finding quotes for businesses on your behalf. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Unlike going directly to an insurer, a broker usually searches multiple providers to find cover that fits your specific needs and budget.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Learn more about the differences between a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002Fbrokers\u002Fbroker-vs-direct-insurer-which-is-better\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">business insurance broker vs going directly to an insurer\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Brokers handle the legwork of comparing policies, explaining complex terms, and negotiating on your behalf. They're particularly valuable if your business has unusual risks, previous claims, or if you're struggling to understand what cover you actually need. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>All legitimate UK business insurance brokers must be authorised by the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.fca.org.uk\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)\u003C\u002Fa>. You can check a broker's credentials on the FCA Register before you use one. At Bionic, we are registered with the FCA. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"cad2d966_191b_01f0_34e1_80a9af5adf8c\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How do I find and choose the right business insurance broker?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Start by checking the FCA Register to verify any broker you're considering is regulated. Although the minority, there are some brokers out there who may not be transparent and hit you with unexpected fees or leave you without adequate cover  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>All legitimate brokers are regulated by the FCA. This helps protect you as they must adhere to guidelines like treating customers fairly and not misleading. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then, look at your own business and find a broker who can help insure your type of business.  For example, large corporations may want to opt for a global broker while a high street business may want someone who specialises in cover for small businesses. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At Bionic, we know UK small businesses, from \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fshop\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">shops\u003C\u002Fa> and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fsalon\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">salons\u003C\u002Fa> to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Ftakeaway\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">takeaways\u003C\u002Fa>, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fhotel\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">hotels\u003C\u002Fa> and car mechanics, we can help arrange cover that’s right for you. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"b0fe8a1a_32dd_0144_5b5a_70e8a597c2a2\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Questions to ask before choosing a broker\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If you’ve never spoken to a broker, you might be wondering what to ask. Depending on who you contact,  you might be able to speak to someone online or on the phone who can help iron out any questions. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Consider asking: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>How do you charge – commission from insurers, fees, or both? \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Which insurers do you work with? \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>What experience do you have with businesses like mine? \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Will I have a dedicated contact person? \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>What support do you offer during claims? \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>UK law requires brokers to disclose their commission on commercial policies if you ask.  So don't be shy about having this conversation upfront, if you’re concerned, they should be transparent.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fauthors\u002Ftara-mitchell\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Tara Mitchell\u003C\u002Fa>, Insurance Technical Manager at Bionic - \u003Cem>“When you speak to our UK-based insurance team at Bionic, they’ll talk you through your options. You’ll also have the chance to ask any questions, so you can feel confident in any decision you make”\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"f1ebeb93_483d_0192_b691_1399529d6a78\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What information does a broker need from my business?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Brokers need accurate business information to get you the right quotes. So, it's a good idea to do a little bit of prep before you speak to someone. Make sure you have these details handy: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Your business description and all activities  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Annual turnover and number of employees \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Business premises details (owned, leased, square footage, roof materials) \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Any previous insurance claims (last 5 years typically) \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Current cover details if you're switching \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Any unusual risks, circumstances or activities (like microblading in a salon) \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Always try to have your turnover, payroll, latest accounts and previous insurance documents to hand, as this can help speed up the process, especially if you’re busy.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Remember, it's your duty to make sure the information you provide is accurate. If not, you could be left without adequate cover. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n30fc9004_c12c_0169_53d6_9b80e37c59f6\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>What happens if my business has unusual risks?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>An unusual risk can be anything that isn’t the norm in your business, that may not be covered in a standard policy. For example, this could be:  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Working from home part-time \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Storing hazardous materials \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Working from a height  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Abrasive beauty treatments (like permanent tattooing) \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Running a hybrid business (for example, a garden centre) \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>You must tell brokers about any of these activities, as they come with a new set of risks. Brokers often deal with unusual situations every day, so it’s likely they can arrange any specialist cover you might need. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n5ce29ae9_eb3c_019b_096c_8043777f1968\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How does the quote process work with a broker?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Whether you have shared your details online or on the phone, a broker will search their panel – this can take as little as a few minutes. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Depending on your business, a broker will approach multiple insurers on your behalf to find quote options. They know which insurers work with certain industries and to get competitive quotes to present back to you. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Understanding and comparing broker recommendations\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Your broker will provide your options on the phone and\u002For via email. Depending on your business, you might have 3-5 options, but you may just have one specialist provider. When considering which one to go for, important not to just look at price, you should compare: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>What's covered and what's excluded \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Policy limits and excesses \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Any add-ons that are included or that you may need \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>The reputation of each insurer when it comes to claims \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>You can always ask your broker to explain any terms you don't understand. For example, “premium” and \"material damage\" might sound straightforward on paper, but don't hesitate to ask for explanations if you aren’t really sure.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It’s also worth checking out our \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002Fthe-bionic-insurance-jargon-buster\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">insurance jargon buster\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"d83d3578_9bdc_0169_86f8_97702d32c3b3\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What should I check before accepting a policy?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Before you say yes to any policy, verify: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>You’ve correctly described your business activities \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>You’re happy with the amount of cover \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Your business address and employee count are right \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>You understand the terms and conditions, and what is and isn’t included  \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>You can also ask your broker to walk you through the exclusions section of your policy. This tells you what's \u003Cem>not\u003C\u002Fem> covered, which often matters as much as what is covered. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Making changes to your policy\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If you get off the phone with your broker, read your policy again, and something doesn't look right, tell your broker straight away. A broker can help put it right, before the policy starts. Making alterations after your policy starts may cost extra or require the broker to speak to the insurer for approval. If you change any part of your policy, this may increase or decrease your premium. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Commercial policies\u003Cem> don’t\u003C\u002Fem> include a 14-day cooling-off period, so you can’t cancel for a full refund if you change your mind. This differs from most home insurance policies and is worth keeping in mind. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"fad3a51a_8b2a_018c_f861_ce792e0004ea\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How much do brokers charge, and how are they paid?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Most brokers earn money in 3 main ways: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Col>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Commission from insurers\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Typically agreed with each insurer \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Fees \u003C\u002Fstrong> – An admin or service fee that may be in addition to your premium cost \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>A combination of both\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Cp>It’s worth remembering that a broker's payment often comes from the insurer, so this doesn’t mean your premium is higher and using a broker doesn’t necessarily mean you are paying more compared to buying direct. Brokers are often able to negotiate good rates with insurers because they bring them business. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n5c2aba3f_52f7_01ce_d6ee_1af7b06035a7\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What happens when it’s time to renew?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>About 30 days before your policy ends, your broker will contact you about renewal.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Many brokers don't just accept the renewal quote from your current insurer. They'll check their panel again to see what other quotes are on offer, especially if your premium has increased significantly.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This is exactly what we do at Bionic. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fauthors\u002Ftara-mitchell\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Tara Mitchell\u003C\u002Fa>, Insurance Technical Manager at Bionic, confirms:  “\u003Cem>When renewing with Bionic, we carry out a fresh search of our panel to find the best quotes available to you. You can then decide to switch or stay with your current insurer, depending on your preference.\u003C\u002Fem>” \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Read up on \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002Ftop-things-to-consider-when-renewing-business-insurance\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">renewing your business insurance\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Preparing for renewal\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If you’re approaching your renewal window (up to 30 days before your policy ends). You should update your broker on any business changes: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Changes in turnover or employee numbers \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>New business activities or locations \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Claims made during the year \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Any  changes to your sums insured \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Doing this ensures your cover still protects your business, and you aren’t left uninsured. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>When to switch insurers\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If your premium rises without an obvious reason, you can always ask your broker why.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sometimes switching insurers at renewal can save money, but it’s not always a good idea to switch purely on price.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Consider checking eviews for insurers before you switch to a new one.  And if you’re happy with your current insurer and the annual premium increase isn't too bad, there is no harm in staying. Often, your broker can deal with the renewal for you. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How does a broker help with claims?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>This really varies, depending on your broker. If you need to claim or have a claim made against you, some insurers will pass you directly over to your insurer. Others will deal with the process.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At Bionic, we don’t deal directly with claims, but we can give you any policy details you need and a contact number for your insurer. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Read our \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002Fbusiness-insurance-claim\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">step by step guide to claims\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What you need to do when making a claim\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Contact your broker or insurer as soon as possible after an incident. They'll tell you exactly what to do next, but generally you'll need: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Photos and evidence of damage \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Police or incident reports where relevant \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Several repair quotes or invoices \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Records of business interruption losses \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Remember to keep all receipts and correspondence, you'll need to provide the facts and evidence yourself. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"de398d25_e68a_01c3_3e4d_8ce889084e8f\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Common mistakes when working with a broker\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Avoid these pitfalls when working with a broker: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Col>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Withholding information\u003C\u002Fstrong> – If your broker doesn't know about a risk, they can't get you covered for it. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Choosing on price alone\u003C\u002Fstrong> – The cheapest policy might not be the best, and leave you exposed when you claim. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Forgetting to update them\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Tell your broker when your business changes. If this is not reflected in your policy, you won’t be covered. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Missing renewal deadlines\u003C\u002Fstrong> – If your policy ends before you start a new one, you're uninsured. This can leave you liable for claims. Consider auto-renewals to prevent this. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Not reading policy documents\u003C\u002Fstrong> – We know no one likes reading the small print, but it’s a legal contract. Check the details match what you discussed. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"a85b6af0_1f75_015d_3086_c63af75f75ab\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Can I arrange other business services with a broker?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Some brokers can sort more than just business insurance. You might find you can arrange other utilities in a ‘one-stop shop’.. This could include:  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Business energy contract switching \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Business VoIP and broadband comparisons \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Business loans and commercial mortgages \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Sorting any of these, in addition to your insurance, can help save you the hassle of dealing with multiple brokers or suppliers, saving you time (and even money). \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ask what your broker offers if you're ever interested. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At Bionic, we can help you sort all the above. From finding your next energy deal, to sorting an upgraded broadband and VoIP system or arranging a commercial loan or mortgage. Get in touch today to find out more. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Or read up on what else brokers like Bionic can offer you beyond insurance.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n429f82f1_db5f_0196_f5ec_4b1e512b890a\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Building a long-term relationship with your broker\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>As with any relationship, a good business and broker relationship is built over time. When you use the same broker and even speak to the same person, you build that trust. Your broker learns your business, anticipates your needs, and can become a trusted ‘go-to’. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So, when your business changes, it’s a good idea to stay in regular contact with your broker to keep them updated, and this doesn’t just have to be at renewal. Always inform your broker about business changes, any expansions, or concerns you have about your cover. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If your broker isn't meeting your expectations, speak to them about it to see if it can be resolved. If you still have issues, remember, you can always switch brokers. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Getting started with a broker\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Ready to begin? Start by verifying potential brokers on the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fregister.fca.org.uk\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">FCA Register,\u003C\u002Fa> once you’ve chosen one, gather all your business information, write down any questions you have and get in contact. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Compare business insurance quotes\u003C\u002Fa> with Bionic today and start a quote online. Our UK-based, friendly brokers will be on-hand to talk you through your options and help arrange cover for you, with no hassle. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Start a quote online now.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":1043,"type":15,"value":1044,"linkedItems":1046},"Author",[1045],"author___laura_court_jones",[],{"name":1048,"type":15,"value":1049,"linkedItems":1051},"Reviewer",[1050],"author___ollie_barrett",[],{"name":1053,"type":1054,"value":1055,"displayTimeZone":1056},"Publish Date","date_time","2025-12-11T09:03:00Z","Europe\u002FLondon",{"name":1058,"type":1054,"value":919,"displayTimeZone":1056},"Updated Date",{"name":1060,"type":11,"value":1061},"URL","working-with-a-business-insurance-broker\u002F",{"name":1063,"type":7,"value":1064},"Meta title","Working with a business insurance broker: A step-by-step guide",{"name":1066,"type":7,"value":1067},"Meta description","Learn how to work with a business insurance broker in the UK. This step-by-step guide covers choosing a broker, getting quotes, renewals, and more. ",{"name":1069,"type":1070,"value":1071},"Add no index tag","multiple_choice",[1072],{"name":1073,"codename":1074},"No","no",{"name":1076,"type":7,"value":1077},"Canonical URL","https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002Fbrokers\u002Fworking-with-a-business-insurance-broker\u002F",{"name":1079,"type":15,"value":1080,"linkedItems":1081},"Related Articles",[],[],{"name":1083,"type":15,"value":1084,"linkedItems":1086},"Categories",[1085],"category___business_insurance_guide",[],{"name":1088,"type":15,"value":1089,"linkedItems":1091},"Subfolder",[1090],"insurance_subfolder___brokers",[],{"name":1093,"type":15,"value":1094,"linkedItems":1095},"Tags",[],[],{"name":1097,"type":23,"value":1098},"Thumbnail Image",[1099],{"name":1100,"description":888,"type":268,"size":1101,"url":890,"width":892,"height":891,"renditions":1102},"Working with a broker (1).jpg",151029,{},{"name":1104,"type":1070,"value":1105},"Show on index page",[1106],{"name":1107,"codename":1108},"Yes","yes",{"name":1110,"type":1070,"value":1111},"Hide Author",[1112],{"name":1073,"codename":1074},{"name":1114,"type":1070,"value":1115},"Hide Reviewer",[1116],{"name":1073,"codename":1074},{"name":1118,"type":1070,"value":1119},"Hide Tags",[1120],{"name":1107,"codename":1108},{"codename":873,"collection":75,"id":1122,"language":75,"lastModified":916,"name":1123,"sitemapLocations":1124,"type":1125,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"8068f267-7f83-462c-91e2-bd40727d3eb0","INSURANCE GUIDE - BROKERS - A step-by-step guide to working with a business insurance broker",[],"guide",{"elements":1127,"system":1203},{"post__title":1128,"post__summary":1130,"post__content":1132,"post__author":1151,"post__reviewer":1154,"publish_date":1158,"updated_date":1160,"url":1161,"seo__meta_title":1163,"seo__meta_description":1165,"seo__add_no_index_tag":1167,"seo__canonical_url":1170,"related_articles":1172,"categories":1175,"subfolder":1178,"tags":1181,"thumbnail_image":1185,"show_on_index_page":1191,"hide_author":1194,"hide_reviewer":1197,"hide_tags":1200},{"name":132,"type":7,"value":1129},"First time buying business insurance with a broker? Q&A with Ollie Barrett",{"name":883,"type":7,"value":1131},"Our Senior Technical Insurance Manager, Ollie Barrett, walks you through what to expect when arranging business insurance with a broker for the first time. Read now.",{"images":1133,"linkedItemCodenames":1138,"linkedItems":1140,"links":1149,"name":1040,"type":175,"value":1150},[1134],{"description":1135,"imageId":1136,"url":1137,"height":891,"width":892},"Bionic branded graphic with text 'First time buying business insurance? Q&A features graphic with Ollie Barrett' with photo of Ollie, Senior Technical Insurance Manager at Bionic.","4dfceea9-885a-4230-b512-91eb60d47776","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F474910e0-7f29-4ad3-b6cd-0bac0a6f300d\u002FFirst%20time%20buying%20insurance%20%281%29.jpg",[1139],"n7f8b02bb_fecd_0199_f69e_f3c4c6fc88fa",[1141],{"elements":1142,"system":1145},{"sound_cloud_id":1143},{"name":912,"type":7,"value":1144},"2263550132",{"codename":1139,"collection":75,"id":1146,"language":75,"lastModified":1147,"name":1146,"sitemapLocations":1148,"type":918,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"7f8b02bb-fecd-0199-f69e-f3c4c6fc88fa","2026-07-21T10:46:48.4898431Z",[],[],"\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n7f8b02bb_fecd_0199_f69e_f3c4c6fc88fa\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Cp>Just set up your business and looking for the right insurance? If you've never arranged \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002F\">business insurance\u003C\u002Fa> before, you might be wondering what you need to do, and it’s always good to do some research on what to expect. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Senior Technical Insurance Manager at Bionic, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fauthors\u002Follie-barrett\u002F\">Ollie Barrett\u003C\u002Fa>, walks you through what to expect when arranging business insurance with a broker for the first-time. With answers to questions that keep coming up from small business customers, just like you. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"4dfceea9-885a-4230-b512-91eb60d47776\" data-image-id=\"4dfceea9-885a-4230-b512-91eb60d47776\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F474910e0-7f29-4ad3-b6cd-0bac0a6f300d\u002FFirst%20time%20buying%20insurance%20%281%29.jpg\" data-asset-id=\"4dfceea9-885a-4230-b512-91eb60d47776\" data-image-id=\"4dfceea9-885a-4230-b512-91eb60d47776\" alt=\"Bionic branded graphic with text 'First time buying business insurance? Q&A features graphic with Ollie Barrett' with photo of Ollie, Senior Technical Insurance Manager at Bionic.\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Five-point summary:\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Assessing cover level:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Business owners should regularly calculate the value of their contents and ensure insurance coverage matches current replacement costs. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Determining public liability:\u003C\u002Fstrong> The right amount of public liability insurance depends on your business’s specific risks, industry requirements, and what you can afford. Some sectors may have council-imposed minimums.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Common underinsurance gaps:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Many SMEs are underinsured due to outdated property valuations. It’s important to distinguish between purchase price and reinstatement cost. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Broker vs. direct purchase:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Brokers can arrange cover to your business’s needs and ask the right questions, whereas buying online may miss important details. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Switching and claims history:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Changing insurers is possible even with previous claims, but insurers will consider your claims history and what steps you’ve taken to mitigate risks.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch2>How do I figure out the right levels of cover for the value of my contents? \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>When it comes to contents, you should check how much the value of your contents is worth. If you’re just starting up, you should have invoices to refer to. But even a year in, you should recalculate the value of your contents, because the cost of replacing items increases each year. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For example, if you own a cafe, you should consider the value of your contents. This includes things like tables, chairs, cookers and other equipment. Remember, your insurance policy is designed to put you back in the position you were prior to the claim, so that value needs to be enough to allow you to replace all your contents, if they all got stolen, taken or burnt in a fire – for example. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And you should keep up to date with this. If you set up a cafe 20 years ago, check the value of the contents in your business today, and the cost to replace items – this may differ greatly. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>How do I figure out the right level of public liability? \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>When it comes to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fpublic-liability-insurance\u002F\">public liability\u003C\u002Fa>, the ‘right’ amount of cover depends on the risks you face. You need to assess your own business risks and estimate potential claim costs.  For some businesses, public liability between £1-2 million might be enough, for some 5 million might suffice, or you might even need £10 million or more if you’re a large business. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>You should also consider how much you can afford to pay for your insurance cover, and any requirements that are specific to your industry. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For example, if you are in hospitality and have a pavement license to serve customers outside, then you may have a council requirement to have public liability up to £5 million. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It’s worth bearing in mind that if you have a disaster that means you need to pay more than the limit in your policy, you'll need to cover that additional cost yourself. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To sum it up, you need to know the individual risks and costs you might face, a broker \u003Cem>can’t \u003C\u002Fem>directly advise you on this. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>What’s the biggest cover gap you typically see that leaves SMEs underinsured?  \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>We often notice small business owners aren’t up to date with evaluations. Do you know the value of your building? And the cost of repairs if it were to burn down tomorrow? When taking out \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fcommercial-property\u002F\">building insurance\u003C\u002Fa>, many insurers expect to see a valuation every two years, but repair costs may increase yearly. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What’s key to remember is that the purchase price of your building vs its reinstatement costs are different. Reinstatement costs are costs to put it back to its state before a disaster. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And it often isn't the building valuation that increases the most – it's actually the cost of labour to rebuild a property. It could increase up 30% or 40% per year. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For example, if you paid half a million for your building, and insured it for half a million, the reinstatement cost of that building might be £1,000,000, in which case you're underinsured 50% and could be left to pay the rest of the costs yourself.  This is where the average clause comes in. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The average clause often means you won’t get a full payout because you are underinsured. It informs insurers so they can adjust how much they pay out in line with how much you’re underinsured. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To avoid this, consider getting a reinstatement survey done every two years and speak to your insurer if you have any questions on claims. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>What’s the advantage of buying through a broker versus buying online directly? \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>For some businesses, \u003Cem>you can’t \u003C\u002Fem>buy commercial insurance directly from an insurer. And in instances where \u003Cem>you can\u003C\u002Fem> buy it solely online, you are unlikely to get it suited to your exact needs without speaking to someone.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When you speak to a broker on the phone, they can ask specific questions about your businesses and you have the chance to ask about cover, so you’re properly covered. Small details that can be missed through online forms can make a big difference when it comes to cover. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Learn more about \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002Fbrokers\u002Fbroker-vs-direct-insurer-which-is-better\u002F\">business insurance brokers vs going directly to an insurer\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>If I switched insurers, would my claims history make it harder or more expensive to get cover?  \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>This really depends on the insurer. Underwriters will have different ‘underwriting appetites’. Basically, this means they have different terms, conditions and exclusions in their policies.   \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you have a previous claim, insurers may ask what you have done since to stop that claim from happening again. This can be a positive factor in their decision. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you run a nightclub, and you’ve had two claims from people slipping on the dance floor, an insurer may view you in a more positive light if you take steps to prevent that from happening again. If you replace the dancefloor with a non-slip floor, the underwriter may feel you are unlikely to claim for slips and take a more positive view than if you didn’t replace the floor. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No one should fear moving insurer because they've had a claim. Sometimes it's harder when there's a claim ongoing, but if the claim has been settled, it's generally easier to look around. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Can I still change insurers if I have lots of previous claims? \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>You can, but you should consider insurer appetite.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>You’ve got both ends of the scale - the big public liability claims where someone has really hurt themselves, and the smaller claims that could happen multiple times a year, like break-ins.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you claim a lot, then insurers may view this in a negative light, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get insured in most cases. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>What if I have no claims? \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If you’re a relatively new business and don’t have any claims, this is a good thing and could demonstrate good risk management practices. On the other hand, insurers do have a good idea of the likelihood of claims. So, underwriters may decide on the pricing for your risk based on other similar businesses. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>If I decide to change insurers, do I need to give notice to my current provider?  \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>You don't need to give notice to your insurer as such. But if you are dealing with them directly and want to move, you need to tell your insurer you will not be renewing. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you’re dealing with a broker and you don’t want to renew, you need to tell them as part of consumer duty. You don't need to give them a month's notice - you just need to tell them to lapse the policy, and that you're going somewhere else. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Learn more about \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002Ftop-things-to-consider-when-renewing-business-insurance\u002F\">business insurance renewals.\u003C\u002Fa> \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>How do I make sure I'm not overpaying if I stay with the same insurer? \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>The best thing to do is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002Fbrokers\u002Fworking-with-a-business-insurance-broker\u002F\">work with your broker\u003C\u002Fa> to ensure you're getting the most competitive terms available. This may mean seeing if they can search the market again for you at renewal. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>Getting started with bionic \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Sorting out business insurance for the first time can feel like another thing on an already overwhelming to-do list. But luckily, Ollie and Tara’s UK-based broker team are on hand to talk you through your options. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Get in touch with us today. Start a quote online.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp> \u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":1043,"type":15,"value":1152,"linkedItems":1153},[1050],[],{"name":1048,"type":15,"value":1155,"linkedItems":1157},[1156],"untitled_content_item_d332501",[],{"name":1053,"type":1054,"value":1159,"displayTimeZone":1056},"2026-01-30T09:00:00Z",{"name":1058,"type":1054,"value":919,"displayTimeZone":1056},{"name":1060,"type":11,"value":1162},"first-time-buying-business-insurance-qa-ollie-barrett\u002F",{"name":1063,"type":7,"value":1164},"First time buying business insurance? Q&A with Ollie Barrett",{"name":1066,"type":7,"value":1166},"First-time business insurance buyer? Ollie Barrett trains and oversees our brokers so knows everything there is to know about buying insurance as a first time SME.",{"name":1069,"type":1070,"value":1168},[1169],{"name":1073,"codename":1074},{"name":1076,"type":7,"value":1171},"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002Fbrokers\u002Ffirst-time-buying-business-insurance-qa-ollie-barrett\u002F",{"name":1079,"type":15,"value":1173,"linkedItems":1174},[],[],{"name":1083,"type":15,"value":1176,"linkedItems":1177},[1085],[],{"name":1088,"type":15,"value":1179,"linkedItems":1180},[1090],[],{"name":1093,"type":15,"value":1182,"linkedItems":1184},[1183],"tag___business_insurance",[],{"name":1097,"type":23,"value":1186},[1187],{"name":1188,"description":1135,"type":268,"size":1189,"url":1137,"width":892,"height":891,"renditions":1190},"First time buying insurance (1).jpg",129390,{},{"name":1104,"type":1070,"value":1192},[1193],{"name":1107,"codename":1108},{"name":1110,"type":1070,"value":1195},[1196],{"name":1073,"codename":1074},{"name":1114,"type":1070,"value":1198},[1199],{"name":1073,"codename":1074},{"name":1118,"type":1070,"value":1201},[1202],{"name":1107,"codename":1108},{"codename":874,"collection":75,"id":1204,"language":75,"lastModified":1147,"name":1205,"sitemapLocations":1206,"type":1125,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"02c513ee-e2a6-43f3-8569-69b1abb2b6b5","INSURANCE GUIDE - BROKERS - Buying insurance for the first time? Q&A with Ollie Barrett",[],{"elements":1208,"system":1394},{"post__title":1209,"post__summary":1211,"post__content":1213,"post__author":1341,"post__reviewer":1345,"publish_date":1348,"updated_date":1351,"url":1352,"seo__meta_title":1354,"seo__meta_description":1356,"seo__add_no_index_tag":1358,"seo__canonical_url":1361,"related_articles":1363,"categories":1366,"subfolder":1369,"tags":1373,"thumbnail_image":1376,"show_on_index_page":1382,"hide_author":1385,"hide_reviewer":1388,"hide_tags":1391},{"name":132,"type":7,"value":1210},"Employee injury at work: A complete guide for UK small business owners",{"name":883,"type":7,"value":1212},"Knowing how to handle a workplace accident and your key responsibilities can be challenging. Find out more about employee injury at work and how to prepare with our guide.",{"images":1214,"linkedItemCodenames":1221,"linkedItems":1232,"links":1339,"name":1040,"type":175,"value":1340},[1215],{"description":1216,"imageId":1217,"url":1218,"height":1219,"width":1220},"A worker sits down injured after being struck by a forklift. Employees help as she holds her ankle. Falls and collisions are covered by employers liability insurance","697cd695-320a-4cb3-bb17-5d71e3d3fcc0","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F7b19ae24-e1c9-4b32-8d32-4913de799f26\u002FA%20worker%20injured%20falling%20or%20being%20struck%20by%20a%20forklift.%20Falls%20and%20collisions%20are%20major%20contributors%20to%20employers%20liability%20insurance.jpg",483,724,[1222,1223,1224,1225,1226,1227,1228,1229,1230,1231],"n82a4cd0c_a695_016a_029d_5989045af892","n29bc26ed_e285_0156_7c39_6636883acba9","n31cec1d4_eb36_0121_c5c1_cd8f92cb849d","e625d225_1ce6_01ef_7abc_a25ba73f547b","n1ce46d95_fcee_0141_5c3a_9925fc362963","e0835701_2763_0151_d012_cde194d5f979","n724d39e4_0390_01e9_13bc_ca8b7c0fec3b","fd6cc5e5_0383_01f0_8e5a_c1f3e0ed4c93","n11a42f82_90f5_0139_6a66_131f1b89f7d6","n8bd1c786_377f_013c_88b9_30d619dd10f4",[1233,1243,1252,1261,1278,1287,1296,1312,1321,1330],{"elements":1234,"system":1239},{"text":1235,"anchor_id":1237},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":1236},"What are my legal obligations after an employee is injured at work?",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":1238},"what-are-my-legal-obligations-after-an-employee-is-injured-at-work",{"codename":1222,"collection":75,"id":1240,"language":75,"lastModified":1241,"name":1240,"sitemapLocations":1242,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"82a4cd0c-a695-016a-029d-5989045af892","2025-10-15T11:22:14.4888933Z",[],{"elements":1244,"system":1249},{"text":1245,"anchor_id":1247},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":1246},"How to submit a RIDDOR report",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":1248},"how-to-submit-a-riddor-report",{"codename":1223,"collection":75,"id":1250,"language":75,"lastModified":1241,"name":1250,"sitemapLocations":1251,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"29bc26ed-e285-0156-7c39-6636883acba9",[],{"elements":1253,"system":1258},{"text":1254,"anchor_id":1256},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":1255},"How can I prevent workplace injuries in the future?",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":1257},"how-can-i-prevent-workplace-injuries-in-the-future",{"codename":1224,"collection":75,"id":1259,"language":75,"lastModified":1241,"name":1259,"sitemapLocations":1260,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"31cec1d4-eb36-0121-c5c1-cd8f92cb849d",[],{"elements":1262,"system":1275},{"quote_image":1263,"quote_text":1267,"attribution":1273},{"name":384,"type":23,"value":1264},[1265],{"name":387,"description":388,"type":28,"size":389,"url":390,"width":391,"height":392,"renditions":1266},{},{"images":1268,"linkedItemCodenames":1269,"linkedItems":1270,"links":1271,"name":399,"type":175,"value":1272},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Regular risk assessments aren't just a legal box to tick - they're an opportunity to spot potential problems before they cause injuries, saving your business from disruption and protecting your employees.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":402,"type":7,"value":1274},"James Barwell, Insurance Director",{"codename":1225,"collection":75,"id":1276,"language":75,"lastModified":1241,"name":1276,"sitemapLocations":1277,"type":409,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"e625d225-1ce6-01ef-7abc-a25ba73f547b",[],{"elements":1279,"system":1284},{"text":1280,"anchor_id":1282},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":1281},"How should I respond immediately when an injury occurs?",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":1283},"how-should-i-respond-immediately-when-an-injury-occurs",{"codename":1226,"collection":75,"id":1285,"language":75,"lastModified":1241,"name":1285,"sitemapLocations":1286,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"1ce46d95-fcee-0141-5c3a-9925fc362963",[],{"elements":1288,"system":1293},{"text":1289,"anchor_id":1291},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":1290},"How do I manage compensation claims effectively?",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":1292},"how-do-i-manage-compensation-claims-effectively",{"codename":1227,"collection":75,"id":1294,"language":75,"lastModified":1241,"name":1294,"sitemapLocations":1295,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"e0835701-2763-0151-d012-cde194d5f979",[],{"elements":1297,"system":1309},{"quote_image":1298,"quote_text":1302,"attribution":1308},{"name":384,"type":23,"value":1299},[1300],{"name":387,"description":388,"type":28,"size":389,"url":390,"width":391,"height":392,"renditions":1301},{},{"images":1303,"linkedItemCodenames":1304,"linkedItems":1305,"links":1306,"name":399,"type":175,"value":1307},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Having proper employers' liability insurance isn't just about legal compliance. It can help protect your business financially and shows your employees that you take their wellbeing seriously.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":402,"type":7,"value":1274},{"codename":1228,"collection":75,"id":1310,"language":75,"lastModified":1241,"name":1310,"sitemapLocations":1311,"type":409,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"724d39e4-0390-01e9-13bc-ca8b7c0fec3b",[],{"elements":1313,"system":1318},{"text":1314,"anchor_id":1316},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":1315},"How to do an accident investigation",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":1317},"how-to-do-an-accident-investigation",{"codename":1229,"collection":75,"id":1319,"language":75,"lastModified":1241,"name":1319,"sitemapLocations":1320,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"fd6cc5e5-0383-01f0-8e5a-c1f3e0ed4c93",[],{"elements":1322,"system":1327},{"text":1323,"anchor_id":1325},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":1324},"Injury risks for specific industries",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":1326},"injury-risks-for-specific-industries",{"codename":1230,"collection":75,"id":1328,"language":75,"lastModified":1241,"name":1328,"sitemapLocations":1329,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"11a42f82-90f5-0139-6a66-131f1b89f7d6",[],{"elements":1331,"system":1336},{"text":1332,"anchor_id":1334},{"name":174,"type":7,"value":1333},"The role of leadership in fostering workplace safety",{"name":934,"type":7,"value":1335},"the-role-of-leadership-in-fostering-workplace-safety",{"codename":1231,"collection":75,"id":1337,"language":75,"lastModified":1241,"name":1337,"sitemapLocations":1338,"type":939,"workflowStep":919,"workflow":919},"8bd1c786-377f-013c-88b9-30d619dd10f4",[],[],"\u003Cp>If an employee gets injured at work, your response as an employer can make all the difference – not just for the wellbeing of your staff, but also for your business. Knowing exactly what to do, what your legal obligations are, and how to handle the situation properly can feel overwhelming, especially just after a bad accident. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This guide walks you through what UK small business owners need to know about workplace injuries, from how to immediately respond to initiatives you can put in place to prevent future accidents. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>We'll help you understand your legal responsibilities, how to support injured employees, and ways to create a safer working environment for everyone. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"697cd695-320a-4cb3-bb17-5d71e3d3fcc0\" data-image-id=\"697cd695-320a-4cb3-bb17-5d71e3d3fcc0\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F7b19ae24-e1c9-4b32-8d32-4913de799f26\u002FA%20worker%20injured%20falling%20or%20being%20struck%20by%20a%20forklift.%20Falls%20and%20collisions%20are%20major%20contributors%20to%20employers%20liability%20insurance.jpg\" data-asset-id=\"697cd695-320a-4cb3-bb17-5d71e3d3fcc0\" data-image-id=\"697cd695-320a-4cb3-bb17-5d71e3d3fcc0\" alt=\"A worker sits down injured after being struck by a forklift. Employees help as she holds her ankle. Falls and collisions are covered by employers liability insurance\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n82a4cd0c_a695_016a_029d_5989045af892\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What are my legal obligations after an employee is injured at work?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>As a business owners and UK employer, you have specific legal duties when a workplace injury occurs. Understanding what these obligations are will help you stay compliant and protect both your employees and your business. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Reporting requirements under RIDDOR\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>What is RIDDOR? It stands for the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) and requires employers to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.hse.gov.uk\u002Fcontact\u002Ftell-us-about-a-health-and-safety-issue.htm\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">report certain types of workplace incidents to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It's your legal duty to report the following incidents:  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Incapacitation from work\u003C\u002Fstrong> — If an injured employee is unable to attend work or perform their normal duties for more than seven consecutive days as a result of their injury, this must be reported.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Specific injuries\u003C\u002Fstrong> — These include but are not limited to:  \n    \u003Cul>\n      \u003Cli>Amputations. \u003C\u002Fli>\n      \u003Cli>Fractures, other than to fingers, toes and thumbs. \u003C\u002Fli>\n      \u003Cli>Any injury that may lead to permanent loss or a reduction in sight. \u003C\u002Fli>\n      \u003Cli>Serious burns that cover more than 10% of the body or cause significant damage to the respiratory system, eyes or vital organs. \u003C\u002Fli>\n      \u003Cli>Any crush injury to the head or torso that is likely to cause damage to the brain or internal organs. \u003C\u002Fli>\n      \u003Cli>Loss of consciousness caused by a head injury or asphyxiation.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n      \u003Cli>Hypothermia or heat-induced illnesses. \u003C\u002Fli>\n      \u003Cli>Scalping that requires hospital treatment. \u003C\u002Fli>\n      \u003Cli>Any injury that requires resuscitation or admittance to the hospital for more than 24 hours.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n    \u003C\u002Ful>\n  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Occupational illnesses\u003C\u002Fstrong> — Any diseases or conditions that develop or are proven to be made worse as a direct consequence of your employee’s job must be reported. These include \n    \u003Cul>\n      \u003Cli>Diseases that develop due to prolonged exposure to a biological agent such as asbestosis. This is a serious lung condition that is caused by long-term exposure to asbestos.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n      \u003Cli>Occupation cancer. \u003C\u002Fli>\n      \u003Cli>Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome. \u003C\u002Fli>\n      \u003Cli>Occupational asthma or dermatitis. \u003C\u002Fli>\n      \u003Cli>Carpal Tunnel syndrome \u003C\u002Fli>\n      \u003Cli>Tendonitis or tenosynovitis. \u003C\u002Fli>\n    \u003C\u002Ful>\n  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Dangerous occurrences\u003C\u002Fstrong> — Also classed as ‘near misses’, this is where an incident that has taken place had the potential to cause serious injury or death. These are usually associated with hazardous workplace conditions or machinery malfunctions.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Death\u003C\u002Fstrong> — If an employee dies as a result of their injuries. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Learn more about \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.hse.gov.uk\u002Friddor\u002Ftypes-of-reportable-incidents.htm\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">reportable incidents on the HSE site\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Who should report accidents that fall under the RIDDOR?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Only people who are deemed ‘responsible persons’ should report any accidents under the RIDDOR. These include: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Employers or a person in control of the premises\u003C\u002Fstrong> — If you’re an employer or in control of the premises e.g renting out office units, you must report any work-related deaths, injuries or cases of disease. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Self-employed\u003C\u002Fstrong> — If you’re self-employed, but you’re working on someone else’s premises, then the person in control of the premises will be responsible for any reporting.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Members of the public, employees, injured persons and their representatives\u003C\u002Fstrong> — Reports should only be submitted by ‘Responsible Persons’ with duties under the RIDDOR regulations.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Gas suppliers and engineers\u003C\u002Fstrong> — If you are a conveyor, filler, importer or supplier of flammable gas and you directly or indirectly learn that someone has died or been injured in connection with gas distribution, this must be reported. Similarly, if you are a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fgas-safe-register\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">registered gas engineer on the Gas Safe Register\u003C\u002Fa>, any incidents including appliances, flues or ventilation used with any appliances, that you consider to be dangerous, should be reported.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Working offshore \u003C\u002Fstrong>— For a large majority of incidents at an offshore installation, the duty holder will be the responsible person under the Offshore Installation and Pipeline Works Regulations 1995. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Special cases\u003C\u002Fstrong> — In relation to mines, closed tips, quarries and wells, the person responsible for reporting the incident is either the manager, owner or operator. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n29bc26ed_e285_0156_7c39_6636883acba9\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How to submit a RIDDOR report\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>For fatal injuries, you must report them immediately. For other reportable injuries, you have a 10-day window to make your report to the HSE or within 15 days if the person who has been injured needs to take more than 7 consecutive days of sick leave. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Fatal or specified incidents can also be reported by telephone.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you fail to report an incident to the RIDDOR, you could \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cesi.org.uk\u002Femployment-work-accident\u002Ffaqs\u002Fwhat-are-the-consequences-of-not-reporting-an-accident-at-work\u002F#:~:text=If%20the%20incident%20was%20reportable,accident%20occurred%20in%20the%20workplace.\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">face paying a fine of up to £20,000\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not all workplace injuries need to be reported to the HSE, for example an employee trips up and grazes their leg. But maintaining proper records of all incidents, no matter how minor, is still vital for identifying patterns of things going wrong and preventing future accidents. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Maintaining an accident report book\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>UK law requires all employers to keep an accident book. This document acts as an official record of workplace incidents and can help protect your business if claims arise later.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When recording an incident: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Write down the date, time, and location \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Note the name of the injured person \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Include details of the injury and how it happened \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Record the names of any witnesses \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Document any first aid given or medical attention sought \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Sign and date the entry \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Keep these records for at least three years. Good documentation habits can help you spot safety trends and show that you take your health and safety responsibilities seriously. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Employer's duty of care\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Under the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.hse.gov.uk\u002Flegislation\u002Fhswa.htm\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Health and Safety at Work Act 1974\u003C\u002Fa>, employers have a legal duty to protect the health, safety, and welfare of their employees. This means you must: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Provide a safe working environment \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Supply appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Make sure equipment is properly maintained \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Offer proper training and supervision \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Update health and safety policies regularly \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>If you don’t meet these legal obligations, it could cause problems later down the line and even lead to prosecution, fines, and reputational damage for your business. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Compliance with other UK regulations\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Beyond RIDDOR and the Health and Safety at Work Act, you'll need to make sure you comply with other health and safety regulations: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>This may seem like a lot, but carving out some time to get familiar with these regulations will help set out specific requirements for workplace safety. You should aim to get familiar with those that apply to your industry. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n31cec1d4_eb36_0121_c5c1_cd8f92cb849d\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How can I prevent workplace injuries in the future?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Prevention is always better than dealing with an awful accident with one of your employees. Not only could this be distressing for you, but also your other employees, and the family members of the injured. Taking proactive steps to avoid workplace injuries helps protect your staff and can save your business time, money, and stress. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Conducting regular risk assessments\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Risk assessments form the foundation of good health and safety management. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.hse.gov.uk\u002Fworkplacetransport\u002Fmanagement\u002Frisk.htm\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">The HSE recommends a five-step approach\u003C\u002Fa>: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Col>\n  \u003Cli>Identify hazards in your workplace \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Determine who might be harmed and how \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Evaluate risks and decide on precautions \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Record your findings and implement them \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Review and update your assessment regularly \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"e625d225_1ce6_01ef_7abc_a25ba73f547b\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Cp>For small businesses, the HSE offers templates and guidance to help make risk assessments straightforward. You can find more on their site. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Creating safety training programs for employees\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Well-trained staff are less likely to have accidents. Make health and safety training a key part of your onboarding process for new employees and provide refresher courses for existing staff when needed. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Your training programs should: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Cover general safety principles \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Address industry-specific risks \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Explain emergency procedures \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Demonstrate the correct use of equipment and PPE \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Include practical exercises where appropriate \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>You should also have a written Health and Safety Policy that outlines your approach to managing health and safety in the business. You can find \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.hse.gov.uk\u002Fsimple-health-safety\u002Fpolicy\u002Fhow-to-write-your-policy.htm\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">guidelines on how to do this here.\u003C\u002Fa> \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Obviously, if you operate in construction, that is going to be different than running a cafe. But it still means you need to consider all the possible risks. Consider tailoring training to different roles within your organisation, focusing on the specific risks each employee might face. It’s also a good idea to appoint a specific employee who is on duty to help in the event of an accident – they should be trained to deal with an accident or emergency. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Ensuring proper equipment maintenance\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Faulty or poorly maintained equipment can lead to unforeseen accidents. it's a good idea to create a regular maintenance schedule for all work equipment, from office chairs to industrial machinery. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Keep detailed records of: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Inspection dates \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Maintenance work carried out \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Repairs needed and completed \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Staff authorised to use specific equipment \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Regular maintenance not only makes equipment safer but can extend its lifespan and improve performance, making it a worthwhile investment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Promoting in the workplace\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>A strong safety culture starts at the top. When management takes safety seriously, employees are more likely to follow suit. You can build this culture by: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Making safety a key in team meetings \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Recognising and rewarding safe behaviours \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Encouraging staff to report hazards without fear \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Involving employees in safety discussions and decisions \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Leading by example in following safety procedures yourself \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>This might seem overkill, but \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sciencedirect.com\u002Fscience\u002Farticle\u002Fpii\u002FS092575352300351X#:~:text=Some%20studies%20support%20the%20positive,et%20al.%2C%202019).\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">research does show that organisations with strong safety cultures typically have fewer incidents and better overall performance\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n1ce46d95_fcee_0141_5c3a_9925fc362963\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How should I respond immediately when an injury occurs?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Your actions in the minutes and hours after a workplace injury can make a big difference to the outcome. Having a clear plan in place helps make sure you respond properly when accidents happen. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Steps to provide first aid or medical assistance\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>When someone is injured at work: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Col>\n  \u003Cli>Assess the situation – check for danger to yourself or others \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Call for a first aider if available \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Provide appropriate first aid \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Decide whether emergency services are needed \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>If necessary, call 999 or direct someone else to do so \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Stay with the injured person until help arrives \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Cp>Make sure your workplace has the right number of trained first aiders and properly stocked first aid kits. The HSE provides guidance on first aid requirements based on your type of business and number of employees. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Communicating with the injured employee and those around\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Clear communication after an incident helps manage the situation and avoid any panic: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Speak calmly and reassure the injured person \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Explain what's happening and what help is coming \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Ask witnesses to stay until you can take their statements \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Let other staff know what's happened, but protect the injured person's privacy \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Contact the employee's emergency contact person if needed \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Good communication can help reduce anxiety and confusion during what can be a stressful time for everyone involved. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Collecting evidence from the accident scene\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>As soon as it's safe to do so, begin collecting evidence about what happened: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Take photos of the scene from multiple angles \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Document the condition of any equipment involved \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Note environmental factors (lighting, floor conditions, weather if relevant) \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Check and record any CCTV footage \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Collect contact details of all witnesses \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>If the accident was severe, try and do the above in 15 minutes if possible, to make sure evidence isn't disturbed or lost. This might seem overkill, but it’s a good idea to help protect yourself in case any injury claims come your way. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Procedures for documenting the incident\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Thorough documentation is key to help with legal protection, insurance claims, and preventing future incidents from happening. Make sure you always: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Col>\n  \u003Cli>Record any incident in your accident book \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Complete any internal incident forms \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Make the RIDDOR report if required \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Write a detailed account of the incident while it's fresh in your mind \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Gather witness statements using a consistent format \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"e0835701_2763_0151_d012_cde194d5f979\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How do I manage compensation claims effectively?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Workplace injury claims are something many employers worry about. But with the right approach, you can handle these situations fairly and efficiently while protecting your business. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the UK, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Femployers-liability-insurance\u002F\">employers' liability insurance\u003C\u002Fa> is a legal requirement for most businesses with employees. This insurance can help cover compensation payments and legal costs if an employee is injured at work or becomes ill as a result of their work. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n724d39e4_0390_01e9_13bc_ca8b7c0fec3b\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>What compensation are employees entitled to?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Employees have the right to seek compensation for any injuries that are sustained in the workplace. Providing the incident was caused either through employer negligence, nonsufficient training or a mistake by a colleague. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>By law, you are required to pay a portion of your employee’s salary while they are recovering from a work-related injury or illness, this is known as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.gov.uk\u002Fstatutory-sick-pay\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Statutory Sick Pay, which is normally £118.75 per week\u003C\u002Fa>.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>How much compensation should be paid?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Compensation for work-related injuries varies. It is normally paid by an insurer, if you are covered with employers’ liability insurance. This is always subject to terms and conditions and coverage varies per insurer.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Contributing factors to this could include: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>The severity of the injuries that have been sustained. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Projected and actual expenses for any medical treatment.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Loss of income for the days the employee had to be off.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Any cost of mobility aids or home care. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>PTSD, trauma as well as pain and suffering \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Loss of amenity\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Navigating the claims process\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Your insurer should help deal with a claim and therefore they would decide if it’s valid, if it can be settled or if it needs to go to court. To manage the claims process effectively think about the following: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Respond quickly if you receive a claim \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Notify your insurer right away \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Provide all requested documentation to your insurer \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Keep open communication with the injured employee \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Consider legal advice if the situation becomes difficult \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>If as a business, you try and settle a claim without getting your insurer involved this could lead to prejudice in your position in the claims process. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Supporting employees throughout recovery\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Supporting injured employees during their recovery is good for them and your business. A thoughtful return-to-work program could help the following ways: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Speed up recovery times \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Reduce the costs of absence \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Maintain employee morale \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Show your commitment to staff wellbeing \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Reduce the likelihood of legal action \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>In fact, the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets.publishing.service.gov.uk\u002Fmedia\u002F64108286d3bf7f02f6e38078\u002Femployee-research-phase-2-sickness-absence-and-return-to-work-quantitative-qualitative.pdf\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Department for Work and Pensions reports 70% of employees feel a phased return to work helps them transition more quickly\u003C\u002Fa> when going back to work after an extended period of leave. Work with occupational health professionals to create graduated schedules that help employees transition back to full duties safely.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Keeping your business operating\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>When an employee is injured and unable to work, your business still needs to operate as normal. Here's how to minimise disruption: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Train employees on everything so they can cover for each other \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Create written procedures for key tasks so employees can check them \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Consider temporary staff for longer absences \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Review and adjust workloads to prevent overworking remaining staff \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Use the situation as an opportunity to review any work processes \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>A bit of good planning can help your business continue running smoothly even when key staff members are absent. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"fd6cc5e5_0383_01f0_8e5a_c1f3e0ed4c93\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How to do an accident investigation\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>If you aren’t really sure what went wrong during an accident, then it’s best to investigate it to get some answers. You might be able to put measures in place to reduce the risk of it happening again. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>The five stages of investigation\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Consider taking these five steps: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Col>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Note down what happened - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Gather initial information about the incident \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Collect evidence - \u003C\u002Fstrong> Take photos, collect documents, and talk to witnesses \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Look for causes - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Try to understand what happened \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Identify hazards - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Determine if safety issues need to be sorted \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Take action - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Make changes to stop similar accidents \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Cp>Try not to rush this, take time to thoroughly understand what happened and why. You never know, it could make the difference between a quick fix and genuine improvement in employee safety. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Common pitfalls to avoid\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>When doing an investigation into what happened - watch out for the following mistakes. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Focusing only on the employee - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Look for system failures, not just individual mistakes \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Stopping at the obvious cause – \u003C\u002Fstrong>Are there any other factors at play?  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Playing the blame game – \u003C\u002Fstrong>Try not to blame employees, but create an atmosphere where people feel safe sharing information \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Rushed investigations - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Allow time and resources for a proper investigation \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Poor documentation\u003C\u002Fstrong>: Record all findings clearly so you can refer back to them \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Avoiding these pitfalls should help you find out what really went wrong and help lead to real safety improvements. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n11a42f82_90f5_0139_6a66_131f1b89f7d6\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Injury risks for specific industries\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Not all business environments are the same – and neither are the risks. And different industries face different types of hazards. So understanding the specific risks in your sector can help you make an informed decision when it comes to safety measures.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Construction\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Construction can be a risky business, with heavy machinery, sites have all sorts of hazards, including: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Falling from a height \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Being struck by moving vehicles or objects \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Contact with electricity \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Exposure to hazardous substances \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Manual handling injuries \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>The construction industry has specific regulations, including the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.hse.gov.uk\u002Fconstruction\u002Fcdm\u002F2015\u002Findex.htm\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015\u003C\u002Fa>, which place additional duties on employers in this sector. It’s also a good idea to make sure your business is protected against these risks.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Learn more about how \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fconstruction\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">construction insurance\u003C\u002Fa> could help protect your business.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Manufacturing\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Similarly, manufacturing has similar risks for employees such as: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Getting caught in machinery  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Repetitive strain injuries \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Exposure to loud noise \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Chemical hazards \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Slips and trips around equipment \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>It’s important to make sure regular machine maintenance is carried out and robust lockout\u002Ftagout procedures are in place in manufacturing environments. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Find out more about how \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fmanufacturing\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">manufacturing insurance\u003C\u002Fa> can help protect your business. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Office environments\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Even office-based businesses have some health and safety risks to be aware of, including: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Display screen equipment issues leading to eye strain or musculoskeletal problems \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Stress and mental health concerns \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Slips, trips and falls \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Electrical safety with office equipment \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Indoor air quality problems \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>It’s best not to overlook these hazards. Just because they seem less dramatic than those in industrial settings – they can still lead to serious health issues over time. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Find out more about \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Foffice\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">office insurance\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n8bd1c786_377f_013c_88b9_30d619dd10f4\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>The role of leadership in fostering workplace safety\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Creating a safe workplace starts at the top. Leaders set the tone for how seriously safety is taken throughout the organisation. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Leading by example\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>As a business owner or manager, your actions speak louder than words: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Follow safety procedures yourself, even when it's inconvenient \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Use proper protective equipment when required \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Always address any unsafe behaviour by staff \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Make time for safety discussions in meetings \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Ensure you have the right resources for safety \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>When employees see leadership prioritising safety, they're more likely to do the same. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Creating accountability at all levels\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Everyone in the organisation shares responsibility for safety – including the boss. If you have any employees who are managers, then it’s a good idea to keep them accountable too – especially if you’re not at your business premises often. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Investing in safety \u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Smart business owners understand that safety is an investment, not just a cost. You never know, safety training could even help improve productivity as well as help prevent injuries - doing something safely doesn’t always mean it takes longer. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>A good safety record can be a competitive advantage when it comes hiring  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Employees stay longer in companies where they feel valued and protected \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Safety improvements can also lead to general process improvements. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Think of it not just as legal compliance and preventing injuries, but something you can use to your advantage.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you employ anyone you are required to display a Health and Safety Law Poster where you employees can easily see it. You can \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.hse.gov.uk\u002Fpubns\u002Fbooks\u002Flawposter.htm\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">download and print one out on the HSE site\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Building a safer workplace for all\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>If you create a safe working environment – it's something to be proud of as a small business owner. If you follow your legal obligations, respond effectively to incidents, and foster a strong safety culture, it can go a long way in protecting both your employees and your business. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Remember these key takeaways: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Know your legal reporting requirements under RIDDOR \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Keep thorough records of all incidents, no matter how minor \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Investigate accidents thoroughly to prevent recurrence \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Support injured employees through their recovery \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Lead by example to create a safety-conscious workplace \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>At Bionic, we understand all the challenges small business owners face when running their business. That's why we provide clear, practical guidance to help you protect what matters most. Read up on more essential guidance with our \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">business insurance guides\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Get support with finding insurance for your business\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Need help with your sorting \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">business insurance\u003C\u002Fa>?  We can help you find the coverage for your business needs, including employers' liability insurance and others. We can also help find your next business energy contract and sort broadband for your business.  \u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":1043,"type":15,"value":1342,"linkedItems":1344},[1343],"les_roberts",[],{"name":1048,"type":15,"value":1346,"linkedItems":1347},[1050],[],{"name":1053,"type":1054,"value":1349,"displayTimeZone":1350},"2025-05-07T17:40:00Z","UTC",{"name":1058,"type":1054,"value":919,"displayTimeZone":919},{"name":1060,"type":11,"value":1353},"workplace-accident-employer-responsibilities\u002F",{"name":1063,"type":7,"value":1355},"Employee Injury at work: A complete guide for UK employers ",{"name":1066,"type":7,"value":1357},"A practical guide for UK employers on their legal duties for workplace injuries, including RIDDOR reporting requirements, prevention strategies, and managing compensation claims.  ",{"name":1069,"type":1070,"value":1359},[1360],{"name":1073,"codename":1074},{"name":1076,"type":7,"value":1362},"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002Frisk-management\u002Fworkplace-accident-employer-responsibilities\u002F",{"name":1079,"type":15,"value":1364,"linkedItems":1365},[],[],{"name":1083,"type":15,"value":1367,"linkedItems":1368},[1085],[],{"name":1088,"type":15,"value":1370,"linkedItems":1372},[1371],"insurance_subfolder___risk_management",[],{"name":1093,"type":15,"value":1374,"linkedItems":1375},[],[],{"name":1097,"type":23,"value":1377},[1378],{"name":1379,"description":1216,"type":268,"size":1380,"url":1218,"width":1220,"height":1219,"renditions":1381},"A worker injured falling or being struck by a forklift. Falls and collisions are major contributors to employers liability insurance.jpg",334932,{},{"name":1104,"type":1070,"value":1383},[1384],{"name":1107,"codename":1108},{"name":1110,"type":1070,"value":1386},[1387],{"name":1073,"codename":1074},{"name":1114,"type":1070,"value":1389},[1390],{"name":1073,"codename":1074},{"name":1118,"type":1070,"value":1392},[1393],{"name":1107,"codename":1108},{"codename":875,"collection":75,"id":1395,"language":75,"lastModified":1241,"name":1396,"sitemapLocations":1397,"type":1125,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"4dc02bf4-7e78-4afd-b3a0-c64874aaf331","INSURANCE GUIDE - Employee Injury at work: A complete guide for UK employers",[],{"elements":1399,"system":1464},{"post__title":1400,"post__summary":1402,"post__content":1404,"post__author":1414,"post__reviewer":1417,"publish_date":1420,"updated_date":1422,"url":1423,"seo__meta_title":1425,"seo__meta_description":1427,"seo__add_no_index_tag":1429,"seo__canonical_url":1432,"related_articles":1434,"categories":1437,"subfolder":1440,"tags":1443,"thumbnail_image":1446,"show_on_index_page":1452,"hide_author":1455,"hide_reviewer":1458,"hide_tags":1461},{"name":132,"type":7,"value":1401},"UK health and safety for small business owners in 2025\u002F26",{"name":883,"type":7,"value":1403},"Discover how to easily protect yourself and your employees by understanding the latest Health & Safety regulations and implement effective safety procedures at work.",{"images":1405,"linkedItemCodenames":1410,"linkedItems":1411,"links":1412,"name":1040,"type":175,"value":1413},[1406],{"description":1407,"imageId":1408,"url":1409,"height":891,"width":892},"Bionic branded featured image with the title 'health and safety features at work' . with hazard sign, safety jacket. Male with helmet and gloves smiles to the camera.","886ce99e-9165-4732-94bb-9d8fc1b064b8","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F202144df-1c76-4789-baaa-2957a2171493\u002FHealth%20_%20Safety%20%281%29.jpg",[],[],[],"\u003Cp>It might not always seem like it, but the workplace can be a dangerous place.   \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As of 2025, an estimated \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.hse.gov.uk\u002Fstatistics\u002Foverview.htm\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">1.9 million workers suffered from work-related ill health\u003C\u002Fa> (new or long-standing), an increase from 1.7 million last year. This is the highest on record.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And it’s not just the workers that suffer, the same report estimates there were 40.1 million days lost over the last two years, up from 33.7 million the two years prior. Employers are losing labour to work-related illness or injury that may have been preventable. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That’s why complying with health and safety regulations should be one of your top priorities no matter what business you’re in.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As well as the various legal requirements you have as an employer to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Femployers-liability-insurance\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">protect your employees\u003C\u002Fa> and any visitors, it’s in the best interest of the business to make sure that your workforce is healthy and protected.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all, healthy and happy employees do great work.   \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>We’ve covered some key areas around what you need to know about health safety in the workplace in 2025\u002F2026, with modern workplaces in mind.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There may be more information that we haven’t included that’s relevant for your business, so always make sure to do your research into health and safety.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"886ce99e-9165-4732-94bb-9d8fc1b064b8\" data-image-id=\"886ce99e-9165-4732-94bb-9d8fc1b064b8\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F202144df-1c76-4789-baaa-2957a2171493\u002FHealth%20_%20Safety%20%281%29.jpg\" data-asset-id=\"886ce99e-9165-4732-94bb-9d8fc1b064b8\" data-image-id=\"886ce99e-9165-4732-94bb-9d8fc1b064b8\" alt=\"Bionic branded featured image with the title 'health and safety features at work' . with hazard sign, safety jacket. Male with helmet and gloves smiles to the camera.\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Do I legally need a health and safety policy? What should it include?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Yes, in the UK the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 is a legal framework that businesses with 5 or more employees need to follow. It outlines the duty of the employer which is protect employees and others while carrying out their work.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>What am I legally required to do?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>As an employer, you’re legally expected to: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Have a written health and safety policy - \u003C\u002Fstrong>If you employ five people or more in your company, by law you must have a written health and safety policy or document.  Whether you use a printed version or store one online, it doesn’t really matter as long as your employees can access it. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Have health and safety advice - \u003C\u002Fstrong>You must ensure that all employees have access to competent and up to date health and safety advice. You can use posters or a handbook that is regularly updated. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Disclose any risks - \u003C\u002Fstrong>You must disclose any risks in the workplace to employees, customers or any other person who may be affected. This can be something as simple as displaying a wet floor sign over a spillage. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Arrange preventative measures - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Employers must effectively plan, organise, monitor and review all preventive and protective measures they put in place to avoid the worst happening. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Consult employees -\u003C\u002Fstrong> It’s important to speak with employees about any potential risks they may have encountered that have not been recorded, to keep your policy up to date.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What are the 4 main objectives of the Health and Safety at Work Act?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>There are four main objectives of the Health and Safety at Work Act. They are: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Employer’s responsibilities\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>As an employer, you have a duty of care to your staff. You are in charge of maintaining equipment and making sure your employees feel safe. You should also: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Provide training on how to carry out work processes safely \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Provide a safe place to work \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Work out a clear health and safety policy \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Carry out risk assessments \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Collaborate with health and safety experts \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Make sure all tasks are handled safely \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Make sure all staff concerns are heard\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Employee’s responsibilities\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>As an employee, you must take some responsibility for yourself in the workplace. This might include: \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Taking care of your own personal health \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Ensuring the safety of other staff members \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Not interfering with your workplace health and safety protocol \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Cooperating with your manager on matters of health and safety \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Asking proactive questions about health and safety in the workplace \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Enforcement of health and safety legislation\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>The role of a health and safety inspector is to make sure businesses are following their own measures. They have important rights, like: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>The right of entry to your business premises without an appointment (as long as it’s at a reasonable time) \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>The right to take equipment for inspection \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>The right to request assistance from the police \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>The right to question your staff on their health and safety measures \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>The right to request health and safety documents\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>An HSE inspector can turn up at any time, but they may be more likely to visit if you operate in a high-risk industry (like construction), are starting a new business, or they’ve received complaints - so it’s best to be prepared. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Enforcement action\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If your business is in breach of its health and safety policy, you might face legal implications. These can include: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Legal Notices - \u003C\u002Fstrong>These can include improvements and prohibitions. Improvements tell you what is wrong within your business and provide you with a deadline to fix it. Prohibitions, on the other hand, tell you to stop dangerous practices immediately. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Prosecution - \u003C\u002Fstrong>These can include large fines and, even worse, court cases or sentencing. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What you need to include in your health and safety policy in 2025\u002F26\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>As you can imagine, times have moved on since the original Health and Safety Act was passed. There have been recent changes to reflect modern working conditions – here's an idea of what you need to include: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>All types of workers - \u003C\u002Fstrong>You need to make sure your policy includes on-site staff and any remote workers. This means you need to outline how you manage digital wellbeing if you’re staff are working at home (even some of the time). \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Who is responsible -\u003C\u002Fstrong> If you’re on a construction site, in a kitchen or even an office, you need to define who is responsible for employee health and safety.  Whether this is a manager or you as a business owner. Remember to keep this updated if you take on new staff. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Actionable procedures - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Include how you manage risks and reduce the chance of injury, detailing all your workplace hazards but also any risks for remote workers - including and digital systems or people employees can refer to help with wellbeing. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Keep in mind, there may be other areas you need to include in your health and safety policy that are specific to your business. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Modern add-ons to your risk assessment\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>A traditional \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fblog\u002Fsmall-business-risk-management-guide\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">risk assessment\u003C\u002Fa> looks at the physical risks you may face in your business, like slipping on a greasy floor in a kitchen or a box falls on an employee in an overcrowded stock room. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But it’s also a good idea to include broader risks that come with home working, such as mental health and cybersecurity.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Remote working risks\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Here are some examples of some remote working risks: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Home office setups - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Consider things like proper office chairs and desks to carry out work. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Mental health - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Think about work-life balance, workers being isolated and the impact of work-based traumas on your employees. For example, a builder witnesses a colleague fall from a height. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Technology security - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Consider cyber security training, secure communication tools, and data protection measures as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-connectivity\u002Fguides\u002Fthe-effects-of-online-attacks-small-business\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">cyber-attacks\u003C\u002Fa> are increasing in small businesses. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Travelling - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Risks associated with hybrid working patterns and client visits, especially if carrying and unloading equipment.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What are the risks of not complying with health and safety standards?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>If you fall behind on your safety standards, you could be fined or prosecuted and have the weight of employee injury or even death on your conscience – it's just not worth the risk.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you run a business where there is a clear risk of death of an employee, customer or the member of the public then it’s really important you take health and safety seriously.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the unfortunate event someone does die, and you haven’t followed strict health and safety procedures, you could be investigated for a failure of duty of care. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not to mention the unpleasant situations that follow — like informing the deceased’s family and supporting employees who may also be suffering because of the accident. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Do I need insurance to ensure safety by law?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>While having the right insurance doesn’t guarantee protection in every situation, especially if negligence is involved, it can play a key role in protecting your business should incidents occur. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Femployers-liability-insurance\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">\u003Cstrong>Employers' Liability\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fa>\u003Cstrong> - \u003C\u002Fstrong>You need employers' liability insurance if you have any employees, including part-time staff and temporary workers. This can help protect against injury or illness caused as a result of their work. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Commercial motor insurance - \u003C\u002Fstrong>If you have a vehicle that is owned by the business, then you need a commercial vehicle policy or potentially a fleet policy if you have a number of vehicles. This is a legal requirement. However, if you have a personal vehicle that’s for occasional business use, you should be able to use it as long as you have ‘business use’ noted on your personal car insurance policy. \u003Cstrong> \u003C\u002Fstrong>At Bionic, unfortunately, we cannot help insure your business vehicle, but it’s likely we can help insure other business operations. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Are there any other insurance covers I should consider?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fpublic-liability-insurance\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">\u003Cstrong>Public Liability\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fa>\u003Cstrong> - \u003C\u002Fstrong>While not a legal requirement, public liability is essential to help protect against claims from customers, suppliers, or members of the public. Many of your suppliers or your commercial landlord (if you have one), may require this in order to work with you. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fbusiness-equipment-insurance\u002F\">\u003Cstrong>Equipment breakdown\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fa>\u003Cstrong> -  \u003C\u002Fstrong>This helps cover the unexpected breakdown of equipment, like your boiler, for example\u003Cstrong>.  \u003C\u002Fstrong>For theft or damage from other events, you should consider taking out specific cover for machinery or equipment.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What are the penalties for breaching health and safety?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Understanding what penalties, you might face for breaching health and safety can help you make better decisions when it comes to training your staff, fixing equipment, and keeping your policies up to date. As of 2025, the consequences of breaching health and safety rules could depend on the following: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>How severe the casualty \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>How far your standards fell below acceptable levels \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Your business size measured by annual turnover \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Any previous health and safety breaches and cooperation with preventing future casualties. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>What charges could I face?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If you’re found to be negligent in your health and safety practices in the UK you could be charged with a criminal offence, the most severe being for Corporate Manslaughter.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>You could face this charge if someone dies while working for you due to a breach of health and safety rules. This can not only apply to the business owner but also to whoever is responsible within your business for not complying with your policy. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In fact, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) even \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fresources.hse.gov.uk\u002Fconvictions\u002Fbreach\u002Fbreach_list.asp?PN=1&ST=B&SN=S&SF=IS&SV=5&SO=DHD\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">lists public convictions on their site\u003C\u002Fa> – with some companies or individuals being fined up to millions for being convicted of breaching health and safety regulations that have resulted in severe casualties or death. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Real world examples of breaches\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>There are many examples on Reddit of employees sharing stories of small businesses they work for, not complying with health and safety regulations: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>One \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.reddit.com\u002Fr\u002FLegalAdviceUK\u002Fcomments\u002Fg3eg9w\u002Funfair_dismissal_for_reporting_to_hse\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">reddit user\u003C\u002Fa> was told multiple times to climb down a drain outside of his work ‘normal work duties’. He refused and reported the company to HSE, and then was fired as a result! In these instances, other Reddit users advised this employee to report the employer to warrant an inspection. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>One \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.reddit.com\u002Fr\u002FLegalAdviceUK\u002Fcomments\u002F15o94tz\u002Fcompany_being_extremely_lax_regarding_health_and\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">other reddit user\u003C\u002Fa> was asked by his employer to perform some ‘other duties’ which resulted in him working outside for 6 hours in extreme heat leading to continuous sunburn, without any protective measures in place. As an engineer, he also was involved in serious flash incidents that could have been fatal. His workplace showed aggressive behaviour when he asked about safety protocols. Again, Reddit users in the comments told him to anonymously report the employer to warrant an investigation. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>High risk triggers that could lead to an investigation\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>You never know if your business could end up being investigated in the following circumstances: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>An employee or member of the public complains about dangerous working conditions \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>You need routine inspections as you are in a high-risk sector \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>You’ve had serious incidents happen that need emergency services  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>A whistleblower reports your safety failures \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>You have follow-up visits after previous enforcement action \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>As a small business owner, the learning here is to get on top of safe practices to avoid injuries or harm otherwise your employees may report you.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How to document your health and safety practices for protection\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>It's important to document everything that demonstrates your commitment to health and safety in your small business, including (but not limited to): \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Regular health and safety policy reviews with dates and signatures \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Training records showing safety training you’ve provided \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Risk assessment updates when there are any business changes \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Evidence of investment in safety equipment and systems \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Records of employee meetings and feedback on safety \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Keeping a record of this evidence in a high-risk sector like engineering or construction, for example, could help you in cases where employees report you to HSE. Showing that you have actively tried to keep your employees and business safe can go a long way in courts (in the unfortunate event it ever comes to that.) \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Learn more about \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002Fworkplace-accident-employer-responsibilities\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">what to do if an employee suffers an injury\u003C\u002Fa> and get to grips with RIDDOR. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How can I make my workplace safer for my employees?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>There are several steps that you can take to ensure you’re making the workplace as safe as it possibly can be.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These could include: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Carrying out regular risk assessments\u003C\u002Fstrong> - Employers should follow the five steps to risk assessments to make sure the workplace is safe. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Select contractors with the skills to work safely\u003C\u002Fstrong> - If you’re employing contractors for projects, you need to make sure that they possess the skills, knowledge and qualifications required to carry out the work efficiently and safely. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Create a written health and safety policy\u003C\u002Fstrong> - Writing up a health and safety policy document is a legal requirement for businesses with 5 or more employees. It’s also a way to efficiently and easily communicate your procedures company-wide.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Provide necessary PPE\u003C\u002Fstrong> - As an employer, it’s your responsibility to provide any necessary personal protective equipment that can help reduce any risks in the workplace. You also must provide this to all employees, free of charge. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Provide effective health and safety training for staff\u003C\u002Fstrong> - For your staff to understand the risks and how they should act on them, providing training will help. In some industries, like catering, you’ll need to be regularly up to date with all health and safety knowledge.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Display any useful information\u003C\u002Fstrong> - Health and safety posters or free, accessible PDFs are a legal requirement in the UK.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>For more government information and advice on health and safety, please head to the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.hse.gov.uk\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">HSE website\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How Bionic can help protect your business\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>While it can sometimes seem overwhelming to get to grips with health and safety in your business, there are unfortunately no ways to reduce ALL risks. That’s why it’s important that you implement the necessary steps for the safety of your employees and also that you protect your business with the right insurance.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At Bionic we can help with \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fconstruction\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">insurance for construction businesses\u003C\u002Fa>, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fbuilders\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">builder insurance\u003C\u002Fa> and insurance for many other UK backbone businesses from \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fsole-trader\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">sole traders\u003C\u002Fa> to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fshop\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">shops\u003C\u002Fa> and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Ftakeaway\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">takeaways\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Get in touch with the Bionic team to discuss your needs or get more information on \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">business insurance\u003C\u002Fa> today. \u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":1043,"type":15,"value":1415,"linkedItems":1416},[1045],[],{"name":1048,"type":15,"value":1418,"linkedItems":1419},[1156],[],{"name":1053,"type":1054,"value":1421,"displayTimeZone":1350},"2025-10-23T08:17:00Z",{"name":1058,"type":1054,"value":919,"displayTimeZone":919},{"name":1060,"type":11,"value":1424},"health-and-safety-at-work\u002F",{"name":1063,"type":7,"value":1426},"2025\u002F26: UK health and safety for small business owners",{"name":1066,"type":7,"value":1428},"Learn about the latest UK legal requirements for health and safety and how to implement the correct health and safety procedures to protect everyone in your workplace.",{"name":1069,"type":1070,"value":1430},[1431],{"name":1073,"codename":1074},{"name":1076,"type":7,"value":1433},"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002Fhealth-and-safety-at-work\u002F",{"name":1079,"type":15,"value":1435,"linkedItems":1436},[],[],{"name":1083,"type":15,"value":1438,"linkedItems":1439},[1085],[],{"name":1088,"type":15,"value":1441,"linkedItems":1442},[],[],{"name":1093,"type":15,"value":1444,"linkedItems":1445},[],[],{"name":1097,"type":23,"value":1447},[1448],{"name":1449,"description":1407,"type":268,"size":1450,"url":1409,"width":892,"height":891,"renditions":1451},"Health _ Safety (1).jpg",164732,{},{"name":1104,"type":1070,"value":1453},[1454],{"name":1107,"codename":1108},{"name":1110,"type":1070,"value":1456},[1457],{"name":1073,"codename":1074},{"name":1114,"type":1070,"value":1459},[1460],{"name":1073,"codename":1074},{"name":1118,"type":1070,"value":1462},[1463],{"name":1107,"codename":1108},{"codename":876,"collection":75,"id":1465,"language":75,"lastModified":1466,"name":1467,"sitemapLocations":1468,"type":1125,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"1e7a4b27-dcd6-47d2-a6a4-380083b241d4","2026-02-18T11:59:01.3856092Z","INSURANCE GUIDE - Health and safety at work",[],{"codename":125,"collection":75,"id":1470,"language":75,"lastModified":1471,"name":1472,"sitemapLocations":1473,"type":1474,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"3c890d06-bd0b-458f-8617-7239d8fde3fc","2026-03-10T17:09:55.6000968Z","Content Block - Guides - Employers' Liability",[],"content_block___guides",{"elements":1476,"system":1500},{"title_left":1477,"text_left":1479,"cta_button_text":1485,"cta_link_url":1487,"image_right":1489},{"name":193,"type":7,"value":1478},"Not your usual boring business content!",{"images":1480,"linkedItemCodenames":1481,"linkedItems":1482,"links":1483,"name":148,"type":175,"value":1484},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Sign-up to The Backbone\u003C\u002Fstrong>, our free fortnightly newsletter for anyone who owns, runs, or works in one of the millions of businesses across the UK. Get the inside track from real business owners just like you\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":49,"type":7,"value":1486},"Yes, sign me up",{"name":52,"type":7,"value":1488},"https:\u002F\u002Fbackbone.bionic.co.uk\u002Fsign-up",{"name":1490,"type":23,"value":1491},"Image Right",[1492],{"name":1493,"description":1494,"type":28,"size":1495,"url":1496,"width":1497,"height":1498,"renditions":1499},"backbone-image.png","Backbone cover photo",144987,"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F3212614b-64af-47bf-8de8-bb4b18ed29cb\u002Fbackbone-image.png",452,403,{},{"codename":126,"collection":75,"id":1501,"language":75,"lastModified":1502,"name":1503,"sitemapLocations":1504,"type":1505,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"31d6b6b9-30ef-4f5a-bde5-ec18f1823f86","2024-11-19T13:47:59.5857742Z","Content Block - Image with CTA - Ins Backbone",[],"content_block___image_with_cta",{"elements":1507,"system":1508},{},{"codename":127,"collection":75,"id":1509,"language":75,"lastModified":1510,"name":1511,"sitemapLocations":1512,"type":127,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"27c81dfe-7041-4ad0-913b-6f7b41ef4a2b","2024-11-12T12:29:58.1483257Z","Content Block - Social",[],{"name":1514,"type":7,"value":1515},"Meta Title","Compare Employers’ Liability Insurance Quotes with Bionic",{"name":1517,"type":7,"value":1518},"Meta Description","Compare employers' liability insurance quotes and protect your small business against employee claims. Compare, switch and renew with Bionic. ",{"name":1520,"type":7,"value":1521},"Meta Canonical","https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Femployers-liability-insurance\u002F",{"name":1523,"type":1070,"value":1524},"Meta Robots",[1525],{"name":1526,"codename":1526},"index",{"name":1528,"type":1070,"value":1529},"Meta Aggregate Schema",[],{"codename":1531,"collection":75,"id":1532,"language":75,"lastModified":1533,"name":1534,"sitemapLocations":1535,"type":1536,"workflowStep":81,"workflow":75},"employers__liability_insurance___new","f4ded519-2101-4604-b222-b4621f4da170","2026-05-11T08:31:06.0793013Z","Employers' Liability Insurance - New",[],"seo_product_page",1785167424650]